Daijiworld Media Network – Kolkata

Kolkata, Jul 27: In a dramatic and action-packed Kolkata Derby, East Bengal emerged victorious over arch-rivals Mohun Bagan with a 3-2 win in their Calcutta Football League Premier Division Group A clash at the Kalyani Stadium on Saturday.

Bino George's East Bengal side made a fast start and held their nerve in a tense finish to claim bragging rights and three crucial points. Jesin TK (9'), Sayan Banerjee (45+6') and David Lalhlansanga (69') were on target for the Red and Gold brigade, while Mohun Bagan responded through Leewan Castanha (55') and Kiyan Nassiri (67') in a thrilling five-goal encounter.

Jesin, also captaining the team, opened the scoring early with a simple tap-in following a fine build-up involving Edmund and Banerjee. The lead was doubled just before halftime when Sayan Banerjee calmly slotted into an open net after rounding off the keeper in a swift counterattack.

Mohun Bagan came out strong in the second half, with Castanha reducing the deficit after heading home from a corner set-up by Dippendu. Kiyan Nassiri soon brought the match level with a well-placed header, raising hopes of a turnaround.

However, East Bengal responded almost immediately as David Lalhlansanga restored the lead with a strong header from an Aman CK cross. Despite intense late pressure from Mohun Bagan and missed chances at both ends, East Bengal held firm.

The match ended with tempers flaring as Aman CK received a second yellow card in stoppage time. Fans erupted in joy, waving flags and lighting traditional "moshals" (torches), celebrating a memorable derby triumph in classic Kolkata style.

With this win, East Bengal moved to eight points from five matches, while Mohun Bagan stayed on ten points from six outings.