East Bengal toyed with Inter Kashi, scoring five goals
The scoreline read 5-1, but it could easily have been 8-1. On one side was a rampant East Bengal side in sparkling form; on the other, an Inter Kashi team that looked directionless and struggled without its foreign players. Whether it was the match report, analysis or tactical breakdown, one thing was clear: this was an overwhelmingly one-sided contest.
By Admin•Published Oct 23, 2026, 7:58 PM
Photo Courtesy: East Bengal FC
XtraTime Web Desk
The scoreline read 5-1, but it could easily have been 8-1. On one side was a rampant East Bengal side in sparkling form; on the other, an Inter Kashi team that looked directionless and struggled without its foreign players. Whether it was the match report, analysis or tactical breakdown, one thing was clear: this was an overwhelmingly one-sided contest.
For the first time, Ivory Coast striker Eke Loba started the match and responded with a brace, along with multiple assists. More importantly, he showed that he is not someone who confines himself to the role of a traditional No. 9. Loba can drop deep to help build attacks, taking on many of the responsibilities of a No. 10 while leading the line. The other three goals came from Dani Ramírez, PV Vishnu and substitute Lucas, the Polish striker.
Both of East Bengal's foreign strikers found the net, with David and Edmund also getting among the goals. That will certainly bring a wider smile to head coach Habas's face.
There are several reasons why East Bengal look so impressive this season. The first is the midfield combination of Rashid and Dani Ramírez. Rashid has consistently played the role of a midfield ringmaster, winning possession, covering plenty of ground and contributing to attacks. Ramírez, meanwhile, has been the creative force, building moves, delivering assists and scoring goals himself.
The team's physical condition is another major factor. East Bengal appear quicker and fitter than many of their rivals. The players relentlessly chase the ball and immediately look to win it back after losing possession. That ability to press and recover possession quickly is a hallmark of a well-drilled side.
Inter Kashi, meanwhile, offered virtually no resistance. Forget stopping this East Bengal side; Inter Kashi looked distinctly out of place in the ISL. East Bengal made the contest look so easy that it almost resembled a match against a local neighbourhood club. They not only secured a comfortable victory but also got valuable preparation ahead of their next AFC Champions League Two fixture.
Ramírez opened the scoring with a delightful chip over Inter Kashi goalkeeper Albino Gomes, sending the ball into the net.
Vishnu scored the second with a low shot from the left. However, questions could be asked about his decision-making in that move. Loba had played the ball to Vishnu before moving into an excellent position inside the box. From where Vishnu took his shot, the chances of scoring were relatively slim. Had he returned the pass to Loba, who was in a much better position, a goal would have looked almost certain. However, Albino's error meant Vishnu escaped any serious scrutiny.
Loba then made it 3-0 from the penalty spot after Ramírez was fouled inside the box. The Ivory Coast striker scored his second with a powerful header from a Bipin cross.
An own goal by Nunga added to Inter Kashi's misery before Polish striker Lucas completed the scoring for East Bengal.
East Bengal have now played two ISL matches, winning the first 4-0 and following it up with a 5-1 triumph. More than the results, though, it is the attacking football that stands out. The team are creating chances in abundance, and with Habas at the helm, this East Bengal side could prove extremely difficult to stop. Very difficult indeed.
