Match Highlights
East Bengal FC secured a 4-1 victory over Mohun Bagan SG in the Durand Cup 2026 Final on 23 August at Salt Lake Stadium (VYBK). Bipin Singh opened the scoring with a precise finish from a Basim Rashid pass, giving the Red & Gold Brigade a 1-0 lead. Edmund Lalrindika then completed a hat-trick, adding three more goals to cement the win. Mohun Bagan’s only goal came from Manvir Singh. The result gave East Bengal its 17th Durand Cup, tying the record held by Mohun Bagan SG. The triumph ended a 22-year wait for the trophy and marked the club’s first Durand Cup win since 2004.
Player Reactions
MD Rashid, the new club captain, praised the squad’s performance and the fans’ support. “This is for the fans. I hope they enjoy this,” Rashid said, reflecting on the team’s hard-earned victory. He also addressed criticism of the club’s transitional playing system, noting that the team “scored when we had chances” and that the win was a sign of progress. Edmund Lalrindika, who scored the hat-trick, described the moment as a “new era” for East Bengal. “I feel really proud to score a hat-trick, but winning the trophy is more important,” he said. He also expressed hope for future success in the Indian Super League and AFC competitions. Defender Sandip Mandi, who transitioned from Inter Kashi FC to East Bengal’s starting eleven, shared his excitement: “I am feeling really good after winning the trophy. It is a whole team effort.” Midfielder Dani Ramirez and forward Prabhsukhan Singh Gill echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of the victory for the club’s reputation on the international stage.
Looking Ahead
The club’s management highlighted upcoming challenges in the AFC and ISL, stating that the Durand Cup was a pre-season warm-up. Rashid said, “Right now the more serious games are coming. AFC, ISL, this is what’s going to count more.” East Bengal’s triumph is expected to boost morale ahead of the 2025-26 Indian Super League season and the club’s participation in continental competitions. The players remain focused on maintaining momentum and delivering further success for the club and its supporters.
