An 8-0 victory—East Bengal nearly broke their own Durand Cup record while getting a solid match workout

XtraTime Web Desk

East Bengal produced a ruthless display as they thrashed CISF Protectors 8-0 in the Durand Cup, treating the contest as little more than a training exercise ahead of tougher challenges. The emphatic victory also equalled the second-biggest winning margin in the tournament's history.

The Red and Gold Brigade still hold the record for the biggest win in the Durand Cup, having crushed B.B. Star 10-0 in 1972. The second-largest victory had belonged to Dempo, who defeated Real Kashmir 9-1 in 2016. East Bengal's eight-goal demolition of CISF Protectors now matches that record in terms of goal difference.

The scoreline could have been even more staggering. East Bengal struck the woodwork on four occasions, with Edmund, Nunga and David all hitting the post, while another effort from Edmund rattled the crossbar. The Kolkata giants also had a strong claim for a penalty, underlining their complete dominance throughout the match.

Head coach Antonio Habas made several changes to his starting XI, handing opportunities to a number of squad players. Even after withdrawing both foreign stars, Rashid and Dani Ramírez, once the team had established a 4-0 lead, East Bengal continued their relentless attacking football.

P.V. Vishnu starred with a brilliant hat-trick, while Jesin TK scored twice. Jixon and Bipin added one goal each, with the remaining strike coming via an own goal forced by sustained East Bengal pressure.

One of the standout performers was Dani Ramírez. Before being substituted, the Spanish midfielder orchestrated East Bengal's attacking play and was instrumental in the build-up to the first three goals, dictating the tempo with his creativity and vision.

Habas also handed goalkeeper Purba Lachenpa his debut for the club in place of Gill. However, the custodian had a remarkably quiet evening, as East Bengal's dominance ensured he was rarely called into action.

Following their derby defeat, East Bengal desperately needed victories in their remaining group-stage matches to stay in contention for one of the two best second-placed spots. Goal difference could prove decisive, making this comprehensive 8-0 triumph a significant boost to their qualification hopes as well as their confidence heading into the business end of the competition.