The result marks a significant milestone as the first point earned by an Indian club in the rebranded
Early Dominance and Tactical Breakthroughs
The visitors signaled their intent early, breaking the deadlock in the ninth minute. Edmund Lalrindika initiated the move, forcing Al Hussein goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila into a save. The rebound fell kindly for Daniel Ramírez, who capitalized on the opportunity to slot the ball home from close range. Although the Jordanian side responded with a series of attacking forays—most notably through Aref Haitham and a powerful header from Pedro Henrique that was expertly saved by Prabhsukhan Singh Gill—East Bengal remained disciplined.
The Indian side looked to extend their advantage as the first half drew to a close. After a missed opportunity by Lalrindika in the 38th minute, the team successfully doubled their lead just two minutes later. A corner from Ramírez caused confusion in the penalty area, with Abulaila misjudging the flight of the ball, which deflected off Anwar Ali’s shoulder and into the back of the net to make it 2-0.
Al Hussein Fight Back in Second Half
Following the restart, the home side increased the pressure in search of a lifeline. After several wayward attempts from distance, their persistence was rewarded in the 61st minute. Kharouba dispossessed Hardik Bhatt and surged into the box, delivering a precise cut-back for captain Mahmoud Al Mardi, who slid the ball past the goalkeeper to reduce the deficit.
With momentum shifting, Al Hussein continued to press for an equalizer as the clock ticked down. Their efforts finally bore fruit in the 87th minute when a cross from the left flank by Obaida Al Namarnah found Ahmad Assaf, who steered the ball into the net to level the score. Despite the late pressure, East Bengal held firm to ensure they returned home with a share of the spoils.
