East Bengal vs Indian Air Force FT, Durand Cup 2024: Promising start to campaign for Torch Bearers with 3-1 win

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Emami East Bengal began Durand Cup 2024 campaign with a convincing 3-1 win over the Indian Air Force Football Team (IAFFT). Despite Indian Air Force taking an unexpected lead in the 19th minute through Somananda Singh, goals from David Lalhlansanga, Dimitrios Diamantakos, and Saul Crespo ensured a comfortable victory for last year's runners-up, placing them at the top of the group ahead of their rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

Emami East Bengal FC Head Coach Carles Cuadrat fielded a strong starting eleven featuring new signings Madih Talal, Jeakson Singh, David Lalhlansanga, and Mark Zothanpuia, alongside key players like Naorem Mahesh Singh, Hijazi Maher, and Saul Crespo. Indian Air Force Head Coach Priya Darshan opted for a younger lineup, with experienced players Arashpreet Singh and Vivek Kumar on the bench.

David Lalhlansanga nearly gave East Bengal the lead with a header from a Mahesh free kick, but it struck the post. He was close again in the sixth minute with a one-on-one opportunity, but goalkeeper Shubajit Basu made a crucial save. Despite dominating the first quarter of the match, East Bengal could not break through the Air Force defense.

IAF took an unexpected lead in the 19th minute when Saurav Sadhukhan's cross was headed in by Somananda Singh, beating Prabhsukhan Singh Gill. The Air Force then made it difficult for East Bengal to find clear chances, with East Bengal taking 15 shots in the first half. The equalizer came in the 43rd minute when Madih Talal's chip found David Lalhlansanga, who scored with a deft chip over the goalkeeper.

Substitutions in the second half altered the game's dynamics. Carles Cuadrat brought in Dimitrios Diamantakos and Vishnu P.V, replacing David Lalhlansanga and Naorem Mahesh Singh. This change increased East Bengal's offensive pace, and they took the lead in the 61st minute when Diamantakos headed in a cross from Mark Zothanpuia, set up by Madih Talal.

East Bengal extended their lead seven minutes later. Sourav’s pass found Diamantakos, who assisted Saul Crespo. Crespo’s well-timed shot went past the goalkeeper. Torch Bearers managed the remainder of the match comfortably, though they missed a few more chances in the final minutes.