The 22-year-old forward provided East Bengal with an ideal start, finding the back of the net in the eighth minute before doubling his tally just before the half-time whistle. These efforts initially placed the hosts in a commanding position, but Al Shorta responded with a second-half surge, securing victory through goals from Ahmed Yahya, Hussein Al Saedi, and Kingsley Kuku. Even with the visitors reduced to ten men in the closing stages, East Bengal were unable to recover the deficit.
A rapid rise through the ranks
Born in Mizoram in November 2001, David’s development began within the youth academy of Aizawl FC. He transitioned to professional football during the 2020-21 I-League season, where he recorded five goals in 26 appearances. His career trajectory accelerated following a move to Mohammedan Sporting, where he became a pivotal figure in the club's recent successes. During his tenure there, he netted 23 goals in the Calcutta Football League to help secure a third consecutive title and played a key role in the team's 2023-24 I-League triumph, which earned the club promotion to the Indian Super League.
David’s reputation as a prolific scorer was further bolstered by his performance in the 2023 Durand Cup, where he claimed the Golden Boot after scoring six goals in only three matches. Since joining East Bengal on a three-year contract in 2024, the forward has navigated a period of adjustment. However, under the guidance of Antonio Lopez Habas, who took charge this summer, David has secured more consistent first-team opportunities. He has now registered 10 goals across all competitions this season, including three in continental fixtures, reinforcing his status as a dependable attacking threat for the Kolkata-based side.
