Cleiton Silva scored a stunning extra-time winner as East Bengal edged past defending champions Odisha FC in the Kalinga Super Cup. With the win, the Red and Gold Brigade claimed their first trophy in 12 years with their last coming in the 2012 Federation Cup. Carles Cudrat’s men also booked their place in the AFC Champions League 2 Preliminary Round as East Bengal returned to the Asian stage for the first time since 2015.
East Bengal FC made an impressive start to their Kalinga Super Cup campaign, securing a thrilling 3-2 victory against Hyderabad FC. Continuing their winning streak, the Red & Gold Brigade notched another convincing win with a 2-1 triumph over Sreenidi Deccan FC.
The pinnacle of their tournament unfolded in a highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the season’s first Kolkata Derby. Carles Cuadrat’s squad showcased resilience by coming from behind to secure a notable 3-1 victory, sending East Bengal’s passionate fan base into jubilation.
Advancing to the semi-final, East Bengal faced Jamshedpur FC, where they exhibited their dominance with a comfortable 2-0 win, proving too much for the Red Miners to handle under Cuadrat’s management.