AIFF Super Cup 2025: East Bengal Hold Mohun Bagan to Enter Semifinals on Goal Difference

East Bengal FC displayed an outstanding defensive performance to hold arch-rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant to a goalless draw, booking their place in the AIFF Super Cup 2025 semifinals on goal difference in Bhubaneswar on Friday.

Both sides ended the group stage with six points each, but Oscar Bruzon’s East Bengal progressed owing to their superior goal difference, aided by a resounding 4-0 win over Chennaiyin FC earlier in the tournament.

East Bengal’s Tactical Masterclass in Defence

The Kolkata Derby lived up to its billing, filled with tension, grit, and high-intensity battles even as clear scoring chances remained limited. East Bengal’s defensive line, led by Anwar Ali, stood tall throughout the match. Their compact formation and disciplined pressing neutralized Mohun Bagan’s attacking threats efficiently.

Mohun Bagan’s best opportunity came in the 24th minute when Bipin Singh’s header from a Miguel Figueira cross struck the post. Later, Liston Colaco came close with a looping header in the 46th minute, narrowly missing the target.

In the second half, Bagan’s attacking momentum increased. Around the 67th minute, Colaco’s shot was bravely blocked by Anwar Ali, while Jason Cummings’ free-kick and subsequent efforts failed to find the net. Despite waves of late pressure, East Bengal’s defenders Aiban Dohling and Hijazi Maher, along with goalkeeper Kamaljit Singh, ensured the Red and Gold brigade maintained a clean sheet.

Kolkata Derby Dominance Continues

With this result, East Bengal continued their strong run in Kolkata derbies this season — registering two wins, one loss, and one draw in four encounters. They previously defeated Mohun Bagan in the CFL Premier Division and Durand Cup, while narrowly losing the IFA Shield final on penalties.

The result not only highlighted their defensive solidity but also underlined Bruzon’s effective strategy in high-pressure matches.

Dempo and Chennaiyin End Campaigns with a 1-1 Draw

In another Group A fixture at Bambolim, Dempo SC and Chennaiyin FC ended their campaigns with a thrilling 1-1 draw. Shubham Rawat opened the scoring for Dempo with a curling free-kick in the 25th minute. However, the moment of the match came when goalkeeper Samik Mitra equalised for Chennaiyin with a sensational long-range strike from his own half — one of the most memorable goals of the tournament.

Both teams bowed out of the competition, finishing third and fourth in the group, respectively.

Looking Ahead

With East Bengal’s entry into the semifinals, the AIFF Super Cup 2025 promises more excitement as the Red and Gold brigade aim to extend their momentum and possibly lift another trophy in an already successful season.