East Bengal FC Triumphs with 3-1 Comeback in Durand Cup Opener

East Bengal FC kicked off their Durand Cup 2024 campaign with a 3-1 comeback victory against Indian Air Force FT. Led by coach Carles Cuadrat, goals from David Lalhlalsanga, Dimitrios Diamantakos, and Saul Crespo sealed the win at Kolkata’s Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.

East Bengal FC head coach Carles Cuadrat expressed his delight after his team began their Durand Cup 2024 journey with a 3-1 comeback win against Indian Air Force FT. The match, held at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, saw the Red and Golds scoring three goals to secure victory.

The Red and Gold Brigade displayed offensive dominance from the start, creating multiple goal-scoring opportunities. Despite conceding a goal in the 19th minute, debutant David Lalhlalsanga equalized soon after. Cuadrat’s men maintained their attacking prowess throughout the first half, with Lalhlalsanga missing the chance for a first-half hat-trick.

In the second half, East Bengal FC continued their high-pressing gameplay. Debutant Dimitrios Diamantakos and captain Saul Crespo extended the lead, ensuring a commanding start in the tournament. Cuadrat expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance but emphasized the need for physical improvement.

"We played good football. The opponent scored first, but we created many chances. Despite initial setbacks, the players controlled the game well and executed our tactics," Cuadrat said. He praised his players for replicating training ground strategies but highlighted the need for better physical conditioning.

"The physical areas need the most improvement right now. For some players, it’s been 25 days of training, but for others, only a week. Still, I'm happy with our tactical execution," he added.

East Bengal FC’s new signings made a significant impact. Greek forward Diamantakos, ISL 2023-24's Golden Boot winner, scored after coming off the bench, while French playmaker Madih Talal, who was named Player of the Match, provided two assists. Cuadrat praised the duo for their offensive versatility.

"Diamantakos and Talal played really well. It was the first match, and despite physical constraints, Diamantakos showed his scoring abilities. Talal, with his creativity, had a lot of intentions with the ball," Cuadrat said. (ANI)