East Bengal advanced to the AIFF Super Cup semi-finals 2025-26, despite their goalless draw against arch-rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MSBG). As a matter of fact, both teams ended the group stage with five points each. Thanks to their better goal difference (+4 compared to +2), boosted by their earlier 4-0 win over Chennaiyin FC.
Highlights from East Bengal’s Road to the AIFF Super Cup Semi-Finals
The Kolkata Derby between two historic Kolkata-based clubs, Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, created a stir. With East Bengal ahead of Mohun Bagun in points, holding 4 points from 2 matches (1 win, 1 draw), they just needed a draw to secure qualification to the semi-finals. Meanwhile, Mohan Bagan needed a win to surpass East Bengal on points and advance.
With everything on the line, both teams came out determined to make their way to the AIFF Super Cup semi-finals from the first whistle.
In the first half of the match, East Bengal controlled the tempo; they attempted several penetrative passes, focusing on exploiting the wings. East Bengal captain Naorem Mahesh attempted to earn a penalty by cutting into the box, but the referee denied the penalty appeal.
What’s more intense is their defensive solidity. Center-backs Anwar Ali and Kevin Sibille put on a superb defensive show, effectively nullifying Mohun Bagan’s attacks. Mohun Bagan finished the first half without any clear-cut chances, surviving East Bengal’s pressure.
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Mohun Bagan marched aggressively in the 2nd half, to secure a win that would have led the team to qualify for the semis, but fell weak against East Bengal’s defense. Goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Gill made key saves, remaining calm under pressure, and East Bengal managed to maintain a clean sheet.
𝐅𝐓: 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥! 🔴🟡🔥
A goalless draw, but a strong defensive display sees us through to the Super Cup semifinals! ⚽💪#EastBengalFC #JoyEastBengal #SuperCup #EBFCvsMBSG #EBFC_TRGP pic.twitter.com/YGlxHpenng— EBFC: The Red & Gold Pride (@EBFC_TRGP) October 31, 2025
Hence, Mohun Bagan’s urgency and attempts all went in vain, and East Bengal held on for a goalless draw. And it was enough for East Bengal to secure passage to the semi-finals, as reported by Sports Star.
According to the source, East Bengal will face Hyderabad FC in the semi-finals.
Key Players
East Bengal
- Defense: Anwar Ali and Kevin Sibille
- Attack: Bipin Singh and Hamid Ahadad
- Goalkeeper: Prabhsukhan Gill
Mohun Bagan:
- Attack: Liston Colaco
- Goalkeeper: Vishal Kaith
Amit Mishra’s Take
The Kolkata Derby between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan was super thrilling. East Bengal, needing just a draw to reach the AIFF Super Cup semi-finals, played fantastically. They defended brilliantly, kept a clean sheet, and secured their place in the semi-finals.
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