East Bengal Triumphs Over Indian Air Force in 133rd Durand Cup Opener

East Bengal kicked off their campaign in the 133rd Durand Cup with a 3-1 win over the Indian Air Force Football Team, seizing control of Group A. Goals from Lalhlansanga, Diamantakos, and Crespo sealed the victory.

East Bengal initiated their 133rd Durand Cup journey with a commanding 3-1 victory over the Indian Air Force Football Team (IAFFT) in a Group A match at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata, on Monday. The Airmen initially led in the 19th minute through Somananda Singh. However, contributions from David Lalhlansanga, Dimitrios Diamantakos, and Saul Crespo ensured a smooth win for last year's runners-up, who now top the group standings above arch-rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

Head coach Carles Cuadrat fielded a robust starting eleven, featuring debutants like Madih Talal, Jeakson Singh, David Lalhlansanga, and Mark Zothanpuia, alongside veterans such as Naorem Mahesh Singh and Saul Crespo. The IAF team, managed by Priya Darshan, opted for a youthful lineup with seasoned players Arashpreet Singh and Vivek Kumar on the bench.

East Bengal dominated the opening exchanges, with Lalhlansanga hitting the woodwork early on. Despite creating numerous chances, they fell behind when Somananda Singh's header gave the Airmen a surprising lead. Launched by Madih Talal's assist, the hosts equalized in the 43rd minute through Lalhlansanga. Tactical changes in the second half, including the introduction of Dimitrios Diamantakos, proved decisive. Diamantakos' header and a subsequent goal from Saul Crespo following a neat build-up play rounded off an impressive win for East Bengal.