Did East Bengal SC Dominate South United FC in Durand Cup 2025 Opener?
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Synopsis
In an electrifying opener of the 134th Durand Cup, East Bengal SC showcased their dominance with a 5-0 victory over South United FC. This match, held in Kolkata, featured impressive performances from Lalchungnunga, Saul Crespo, and others, setting the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.
Key Takeaways
- East Bengal SC demonstrated their dominance with a 5-0 victory.
- Key players included Lalchungnunga and Saul Crespo.
- South United FC showed resilience despite the scoreline.
- The match highlighted the experience gap in the tournament.
- Exciting fixtures are lined up for the Durand Cup ahead.
Kolkata, July 23 (NationPress) Lalchungnunga, Saul Crespo, Bipin Singh, Dimitrios Diamantakos, and Mahesh Singh each found the net, leading 16-time champions East Bengal SC to a remarkable five-goal victory over debutants South United FC in their opening match of the 134th Durand Cup on Wednesday.
This emphatic win at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan secured all three points for the Kolkata giants.
Head Coach Oscar Bruzon opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation, introducing new signings Martand Raina and Mohammad Rashid while David Lalhlansanga spearheaded the attack, supported by P.V. Vishnu and Naorem Mahesh Singh on the flanks, along with Saul Crespo and Edmund Lalrindika in the middle.
The defense was anchored by Anwar Ali, Lalchungnunga, and Mohammed Rakip, with experienced goalkeeper Debjit Majumder. On the other hand, South United FC set up in a 4-3-3 formation, led by Captain S. Noel, with junior international Makakmayum Daniyal as the lone forward.
The first half was dominated by East Bengal, showcasing their technical prowess against the youthful side from Bengaluru. The champions controlled possession while South United defended deep within their half. Just 12 minutes in, they took the lead with a stunning goal from Lalchungnunga.
A headed clearance from SUFC skipper Noel fell to Chungnunga, who fired a powerful shot into the upper corner. East Bengal doubled their advantage in the 36th minute when Saul Crespo converted a penalty after Edmund Lalrindika was fouled in the box by 17-year-old left-back Abdul Salha.
The halftime score could have been even more lopsided had East Bengal been more clinical, with P.V. Vishnu hitting the post twice and Saul Crespo missing several clear headers. SUFC defended with a packed defense, fortunate not to concede more than two goals at halftime, thanks to a couple of fine saves from goalkeeper S. Nishanth.
East Bengal resumed the second half with the same attacking intent, but South United stood firm, limiting their opponents' space. David Hmar, Mohammad Rashid, and Mahesh Singh came close to scoring during this phase.
The third goal arrived in the 80th minute, with substitutes combining to finish off a well-coordinated move. Dimitrios Diamantakos' clever pass found Bipin Singh, who curled a first-time shot into the net past the goalkeeper. Diamantakos then added the fourth with a free kick that slipped through the keeper's hands.
East Bengal completed the rout in the 90th minute when skipper Mahesh Singh expertly struck the top corner with his weaker right foot, capping off a stellar performance.
As the tournament progresses, ISL side Jamshedpur FC is set to face Nepal’s Tribhuvan Army FC at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on Thursday.
Point of View
East Bengal SC demonstrated their experience and skill against a youthful South United FC. The match highlighted the gap between seasoned champions and debutants, emphasizing the need for growth in South United's game. As the tournament progresses, it will be interesting to see how both teams adapt and improve.
NationPress
23/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the goal scorers for East Bengal SC?
The goal scorers for East Bengal SC were Lalchungnunga, Saul Crespo, Bipin Singh, Dimitrios Diamantakos, and Mahesh Singh.
What was the final score of the match?
East Bengal SC won the match 5-0 against South United FC.
Where was the match played?
The match was played at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata.
What formation did East Bengal SC use?
East Bengal SC utilized a 4-2-3-1 formation for this match.
What are the upcoming fixtures in the Durand Cup?
The next match will feature Jamshedpur FC facing Nepal's Tribhuvan Army FC at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur.
