East Bengal FC scripted a memorable night at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata, fighting back from a goal down to beat Kuwait’s Al Arabi SC 4-1 after extra time and secure a place in the AFC Champions League Two 2026-27 group stage on August 12, 2026.
The visitors took the lead in the 75′ through Anayo Iwuala, putting East Bengal under pressure in the crucial preliminary-stage tie. However, the home side refused to surrender.
Deep into regulation time, Jay Gupta struck in the 90′ to restore parity and force the contest into extra time.
East Bengal then took complete control of the game. Mohammad Rashid put the Red & Gold ahead in the 108′ with a superb volley, before David Lalhlansanga extended the advantage in the 117′.
There was still time for one more moment of celebration as Rohit Danu found the net in the 121′, completing a stunning 4-1 victory and sending East Bengal into the group stage.
The triumph also created a landmark moment in Indian club football, as East Bengal became the first Indian club to defeat a Kuwaiti side in an Asian competition.
East Bengal will now await the AFC Champions League Two 2026-27 group-stage draw, scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur on August 18.
East Bengal FC Starting XI:
Prabhsukhan Singh Gill, Hardik Bhatt, Anwar Ali, Jay Gupta, Sandip Mandi, Mohammad Rashid, Jeakson Singh, Bipin Singh, Dani Ramirez, Edmund Lalrindika, Jesin TK.
Picture Courtesy: East Bengal Media
