East Bengal Triumphs in Kolkata Derby - Durand Cup 2025
In a thrilling showdown at the Salt Lake Stadium, East Bengal's revamped team showcased their resilience and determination by defeating their fierce rivals Mohun Bagan 2-1 in the Kolkata Derby during the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup 2025. The star of the match was Greek striker Dimitrios Diamantakos, who made a significant impact after being brought on as a substitute in the 18th minute due to an injury to Moroccan forward Hamid Ahadad.
Diamantakos wasted no time in making his mark, converting a penalty in the 38th minute to give East Bengal the lead. Just seven minutes into the second half, he struck again with an impressive finish that left the ISL champions' defense scrambling. Despite a fantastic long-range goal from Mohun Bagan's Anirudh Thapa in the 68th minute, East Bengal's defense remained resolute, securing an important victory in front of their passionate fans.
This win was particularly significant for East Bengal as it marked their first victory over Mohun Bagan in more than 18 months. Having lost four consecutive top-level derbies since their last win in January 2024, this victory not only progresses them in the Durand Cup but also serves as a sweet revenge for their previous defeat in the 2023 Durand Cup final.
The match was rife with excitement and drama, characterized by full-blooded challenges and several close calls. Early on, East Bengal thought they had scored from a quickly taken free-kick, only for referee R Venkatesh to disallow it. Diamantakos also had a goal ruled offside shortly after.
In a tense moment, Mohun Bagan was awarded a penalty after Asish Rai fouled Bipin Singh in the box. However, it was Diamantakos who remained calm under pressure, converting the penalty to put East Bengal ahead.
After halftime, East Bengal carried their momentum forward, with Diamantakos demonstrating his poacher's instinct. In the 52nd minute, he trapped a pass with his back to goal and spun sharply to fire home, doubling his team's lead.
As Mohun Bagan pushed for a comeback, they came close with efforts from Sahal Abdul Samad and Liston Colaco. However, it was Thapa's powerful drive from distance that finally put them on the scoreboard.
In the closing stages, Mohun Bagan threw everything forward in search of an equalizer, but East Bengal's defense stood firm, enduring wave after wave of attacks. The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among East Bengal fans, marking a memorable victory in the storied rivalry.
East Bengal now looks ahead to their semifinal clash against Diamond Harbour FC, who earlier surprised Jamshedpur FC by winning 2-0. The stage is set for an exciting encounter in the next round of the Durand Cup.
