Indian Super League (ISL) side East Bengal FC began their Durand Cup 2024 campaign with a thrilling comeback victory over the Indian Air Force Football Team on Monday. The match took place at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, where East Bengal FC, the finalists from last season, showcased their resilience after falling behind early.

The game started with East Bengal FC showing strong intent. The team’s new signings Madih Talal, Jeakson Singh, David Lalhlansanga, and Mark Zothanpuia — all featured in the starting eleven. East Bengal FC came close to taking the lead within the first few minutes. Naorem Mahesh delivered a free-kick that found Lalhlansanga, whose header unfortunately hit the woodwork. Moments later, Lalhlansanga had another chance, but Air Force keeper Shubajit Basu made a crucial save to keep the score level.

Despite East Bengal FC's dominant start, it was the Indian Air Force Football Team that broke the deadlock against the run of play. Saurav Sadhukhan delivered a well-timed cross after beating his marker and reaching the byline. Singh rose above the defence to head the ball into the net, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead.

East Bengal FC's efforts in the first half bore fruit towards the end of the opening period. Lalhlansanga, who had missed earlier chances, made amends by scoring his debut goal for the club. Talal provided a lobbed pass that allowed Lalhlansanga to race through on goal and execute a deft dink over the keeper, levelling the scores.

The second half saw East Bengal FC introduce new signing Dimitrios Diamantakos, who had a significant impact on the match. The Greek striker made an immediate impression by scoring on his debut. Zothanpuia’s inch-perfect cross found Diamantakos at the near post, where he powered a header past the Air Force keeper to give East Bengal FC a 2-1 lead.

Diamantakos continued to influence the game and was instrumental in setting up the third goal. Minutes after his own goal, Diamantakos assisted Saul Crespo. The Spaniard received a pass from Diamantakos, deftly manoeuvred past his marker, and unleashed a low shot that struck the inner side of the crossbar before crossing the goal line, further extending East Bengal FC’s lead.

East Bengal FC kept pressing for more goals, creating several opportunities to add to their tally. However, despite their efforts, the finishing touch eluded them. Nevertheless, the team managed to secure a comprehensive 3-1 victory by the end of the match.