In a thrilling semifinal match of the Durand Cup,
Decisive Moments in the Shootout
East Bengal displayed remarkable composure during the penalty shootout, converting all five of their attempts. Captain
Despite SC Delhi's efforts, with Rodriguinho and Duvan converting their penalties, East Bengal maintained their advantage. Chris Ikonomidis scored the fourth penalty for East Bengal, making it 4-2. Earlier in the match, East Bengal's goalkeeper, Prabhsukhan Singh Gill, had made a crucial save against Juan Pena's penalty, keeping the score level and setting the stage for the shootout.
Frustration in Regulation Time
The match remained scoreless after 90 minutes, with East Bengal dominating possession at 60% and registering 20 shots on goal. Despite their efforts, they were unable to find the back of the net, much to the frustration of coach Antonio Lopez Habas. Rashid was particularly unlucky, hitting the crossbar with a free-kick in the 16th minute and later striking the post with another long-range attempt in the 74th minute.
SC Delhi's best chance came in the 33rd minute when they were awarded a penalty after a foul on Rodriguinho. However, Gill's excellent save kept the match scoreless. As the game progressed, SC Delhi began to find their rhythm, but East Bengal remained the more threatening side, with Rashid and Bipin leading the charge. Despite their relentless pressure, SC Delhi's defense held firm, forcing the match into a penalty shootout after six minutes of added time.
