Although the loss left East Bengal third in their group with three points and a goal difference of -4, they successfully navigated their way into the knockout stages. Under the tournament's qualification criteria, the top two teams from each group, supplemented by the two best third-placed sides, progress to the last eight. East Bengal edged out Myanmar’s Ayeyawady for the final qualification berth, boasting a superior goal difference compared to their counterparts.
A Challenging Encounter Against 4.25 SC
The match itself proved difficult for the hosts, who found themselves trailing early. 4.25 SC signaled their intent in just the second minute when Han Jin Hong connected with a precise cross from Pak Ok I to head home the opening goal. The North Korean side maintained consistent pressure throughout the first half, with Jong Pom Hui rattling the post in the 29th minute.
The visitors doubled their lead shortly before the interval. Following a scramble in the penalty area caused by a Jong Pom Hui free-kick, Jong Pok Yong recovered the loose ball and teed up Oh Sol Song, who slotted a composed finish into the bottom corner. Despite East Bengal’s efforts to respond in the second half, including a notable save from goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi to deny a curling free-kick, the North Korean defense remained resolute.
Looking Ahead to the Knockout Stages
While the defeat marked a frustrating end to their group campaign, the broader outcome remains a significant achievement for the club. East Bengal finished the group stage with three points, joining Uzbekistan's Nasaf as the two best third-placed teams to advance. The draw for the quarter-finals is scheduled for December 2026, with the knockout matches slated to take place in March 2027.
