East Bengal Advances to AFC Challenge League Quarterfinals with a 3-2 Victory over Nejmeh SC
East Bengal FC advanced to the quarterfinals of the AFC Challenge League 2024–25 with an exciting 3-2 victory over Nejmeh SC of Lebanon.
Following victories over Paro FC (Bhutan) and Bashundhara Kings (Bangladesh) in earlier Group A matches, East Bengal’s victory in Thimphu, Bhutan, guaranteed them the top spot with seven points.
Having to win to advance, East Bengal got off to a fast start and took the lead after just eight minutes. Pressure from Madih Talal’s corner prompted Baba Musah of Nejmeh to head the ball into his own net. The 15th minute saw Dimitrios Diamantakos knock in a fine cross from Mahesh Naorem to give East Bengal their third goal in a row, building on their momentum. After winning their previous two group games, Nejmeh was taken aback by this rapid 2-0 advantage.
In the 18th minute, Rabih Ataya set up Collins Opare for a goal as Nejmeh swiftly answered. With both teams aiming for a knockout position, the second half was guaranteed to be fierce after Hussein Monzer’s exquisite free kick tied the score as the first half came to an end.
Given the stakes, both teams played more cautiously in the second half. When Hassan Kourani missed an open header in the 47th minute, Nejmeh came very close to taking the lead. Prabsukhan Gill, East Bengal’s goalie, kept the score tied by making vital save from additional Mahdi Zein and Ataya efforts.
The crucial moment came in the 77th minute when Ali Ismail fouled Talal in the box, earning a penalty. With a composed conversion, Diamantakos put East Bengal back ahead and completed their advance. Nejmeh tried to tie the score, but East Bengal’s defense held strong.
East Bengal, who won Group A, now faces their opponent in the quarterfinals. With the knockout stages set for March 5 and 12, East Bengal is looking to build on their strong performance.
Given that East Bengal wants to advance further in the AFC Challenge League, this win is a major accomplishment for them.
