The report says Sahal Abdul Samad scored eight minutes into the second half to settle the contest. The move reportedly began with Kiyan Nassiri pressing Rohit Kumar, winning possession and delivering a low cross. Manvir Singh helped create space, allowing Samad to finish near goal.
Samad played down the individual credit afterwards, saying: “Foi um gol coletivo.” His goal could nevertheless prove personally significant. After limited starts during the previous Indian Super League campaign, the midfielder appears to have begun the new season with a timely reminder of his quality.
East Bengal reportedly improved after the interval, with PV Vishnu, Mohamad Rashid and Daniel Fernandez adding energy from the bench. Rashid forced a save from Vishal Kaith, while Lalchungnunga was also denied and Fernandez struck the outside of the post.
For Mohun Bagan, Kaith’s performance offered the defensive foundation needed to protect a slender lead. Habas’ assessment was blunt: “O goleiro deles foi decisivo no resultado.” It was a frustrating conclusion for East Bengal, but the reaction also acknowledged how close the contest remained.
The report presents the Durand Cup as an important shop window for players competing for places ahead of the wider campaign. Panagiotis Dilmperis introduced Dezan Drazic, a change that reportedly moved Liston Colaco to the right and could intensify competition with Manvir Singh.
Dilmperis also stressed the limited preparation time, saying: “A equipe não estava pronta física e mentalmente porque tivemos apenas três treinos.” That caveat may explain the uneven rhythm, but the result gives Mohun Bagan momentum.
The next storyline is whether Samad and Kaith can carry that influence into the following round, while East Bengal seek a response from their attacking options.