Kolkata, Feb 16 (NationPress) A remarkable performance by Youssef Ezzejari, featuring two goals in a mere six minutes during the second half, alongside a late goal from Miguel Ferreira, propelled East Bengal FC to a convincing 3-0 victory over NorthEast United FC. This match was part of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 season, held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Monday.

Under the guidance of Óscar Bruzón, Jeakson Singh was paired with Anwar Ali in central defense, while Lalchungnunga was repositioned to the right-back role, allowing Jay Gupta to take the left flank. NorthEast United's attack was spearheaded by Parthib Gogoi, supported by Jithin M.S. and Jairo Samperio.

East Bengal started the match with high energy, applying pressure on the NorthEast defense. This intense pressing forced several mistakes in midfield. The wingbacks advanced to assist Bipin Singh and Nandha Kumar on the flanks.

Despite dominating possession and showcasing determination, the home side struggled to generate significant scoring opportunities against goalkeeper Gurmeet. Conversely, the Highlanders attempted to exploit the speed of Jithin and Parthib to breach East Bengal’s high defensive line, but lacked precision in their midfield distribution.

In the second half, an almost own goal from Miguel Zabaco while attempting to intercept a low cross from Bipin Singh nearly gave East Bengal the lead. A corner followed, which was only partially cleared, allowing Mohamad Rashid to unleash a shot from the edge of the box that hit the crossbar. A rebound effort from Miguel Ferreira was saved, keeping the match scoreless at halftime.

NorthEast began the second half strongly, with Jithin leveraging his pace to threaten East Bengal's backline, yet without any decisive outcomes. Meanwhile, Miguel Ferreira tested Gurmeet with a shot after a well-placed cross from Bipin Singh.

The breakthrough came in the 65th minute when Jeakson assisted Bipin, who delivered a cross into the box. Ezzejjari, evading his marker, headed the ball home, marking his first goal in the league.

Just five minutes later, Ezzejjari struck again, doubling the lead. Substitute Edmund Lalrindika skillfully controlled the ball under pressure and, after a deflection off Miguel Zabaco, set up Ezzejjari for a simple finish past the goalkeeper.

NorthEast, who managed their first shot on target between East Bengal’s two goals, faced increased pressure from P.V. Vishnu, who was a consistent threat down the left. They nearly found a moment of glory in the 84th minute when Thoi Singh’s cross rattled the crossbar after East Bengal goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Gill misjudged his jump.

In injury time, East Bengal capped off their performance with a third goal from Miguel Ferreira. Jay Gupta delivered an exceptional through ball, allowing Miguel to outmaneuver the goalkeeper with a precise left-footed shot, sealing a perfect evening for the home team.

Youssef Ezzejari was awarded the Player of the Match.