Rahul Giri in Goa
East Bengal opened their account in the AIFF Super Cup 2025 in emphatic fashion, cruising past Chennaiyin FC 4–0 in a one-sided Group A encounter. Hiroshi Ibusuki opened his account for the Red-and-Golds, helping the team keep their hopes alive for a place in the knockout stage with the much-anticipated Kolkata derby up next.
For much of the first half, the contest appeared lifeless, with neither side able to find rhythm or purpose. But the momentum swung dramatically in the space of 11 minutes as East Bengal produced a burst of attacking brilliance. A well-delivered Mahesh Singh free-kick found Kevin Sibile, whose towering header broke the deadlock. The goal lifted East Bengal’s confidence, and Bipin Singh soon took centre stage — netting twice in quick succession to send his team into the break with a commanding 3–0 lead.
The second half unfolded at a slower tempo, with Chennaiyin unable to mount any meaningful response. Their lack of urgency in the final third allowed East Bengal to stay in control without much resistance.
Late in the game, East Bengal were awarded a penalty after Edmund was brought down inside the box. Japanese forward Ibusuki calmly converted from the spot, marking his first goal for the club and sealing a memorable win for Oscar Bruzon’s side.
It was a night that showcased East Bengal’s attacking intent and resilience — a statement victory that firmly reignited their Super Cup campaign.
Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan endured a frustrating evening as they were held to a goalless draw by Dempo SC at the Fatorda Stadium. The I-League side showed great character from the start, defending deep and threatening on counter-attacks.
Jose Molina made eight changes to his starting XI, resting most of the players who featured in the rain-drenched encounter against Chennaiyin. However, the decision seemed to backfire as the Mariners lacked sharpness and cutting edge in the attacking third.
Molina later introduced Jamie Maclaren, Mehtab Singh, and Apuia to inject energy into the attack. Maclaren came close to scoring after receiving a clever pass from Sahal Abdul Samad, but his shot went narrowly wide. Minutes later, Dimitri Petratos’ effort was blocked inside the box, while Manvir Singh’s header from a corner was denied at the near post.
Dempo nearly snatched a winner when Kapil Hoble broke free on goal, but goalkeeper Vishal Kaith rushed out to make a crucial save.
A small group of Dempo Academy boys kept cheering passionately for their side, who had earlier held East Bengal in the tournament opener. However, the stands remained largely empty, with barely 200 spectators in attendance to witness the clash between two clubs with rich histories in Indian football.
With this result, both East Bengal and Mohun Bagan sit on four points each. However, East Bengal lead the group on superior goal difference (+4) compared to their arch-rivals. Dempo, with two points and a goal difference of zero, remain in contention but will need nothing short of a miracle — a big win over Chennaiyin — to keep their knockout hopes alive.
As things stand, East Bengal need just a draw in the Kolkata Derby to secure qualification, while Mohun Bagan must win to progress to the next round.
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