Indian football club East Bengal secures a 4-0 win over Bangladesh's Bashundhara Kings, solidifying their chances in the AFC Challenge Cup™ 2024/25. The team dominated in the first half, scoring four goals and setting up a decisive matchup with Lebanon's Nejmeh SC for the group's top spot. Despite their opponents having more possession in the second half, East Bengal maintained their lead and ultimately sealed a crucial victory.
East Bengal's Resurgence: Dominating Bangladesh Kings and Setting Sights on AFC Challenge Cup Glory
Indian football powerhouse East Bengal has once again proven their mettle, securing a resounding 4-0 victory over Bangladesh's Bashundhara Kings in the AFC Challenge Cup™ 2024/25. This triumph not only solidifies their chances of advancing in the tournament but also marks a significant milestone in the club's resurgence.
Background
East Bengal is one of India's oldest and most celebrated football clubs, founded in 1920. Known for its passionate fanbase and unwavering spirit, the club has won multiple national championships, including three successive I-League titles from 2013 to 2015. However, in recent years, the club faced financial challenges and a decline in form.
Resurgent East Bengal
In 2023, East Bengal underwent a major restructuring, with Kolkata-based Shree Cement acquiring a majority stake in the club. This investment has breathed new life into the team, providing financial stability and attracting top players.
Under the guidance of experienced coach Marco Rivera, East Bengal has begun to regain its former glory. The club finished as runners-up in the 2022-23 I-League and qualified for the AFC Challenge Cup, a continental tournament for emerging football nations.
Bashundhara Kings Victory
The match against Bashundhara Kings was a statement of intent for East Bengal. The team dominated the first half, scoring four goals through Sourav Das, Victor Perez, Dimas Delgado, and Naorem Mahesh Singh. Despite the Kings having more possession in the second half, East Bengal's defense held firm, securing a crucial victory.
AFC Challenge Cup Ambitions
East Bengal's win over Bashundhara Kings sets up a decisive matchup with Lebanon's Nejmeh SC for the top spot in Group B. A victory against Nejmeh will guarantee East Bengal a place in the knockout stages and inch them closer to their goal of winning the AFC Challenge Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the AFC Challenge Cup?
It is a continental football tournament organized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) for developing football nations.
2. When is the AFC Challenge Cup 2024/25 being held?
The tournament is scheduled to take place from August 2024 to December 2025.
3. Which teams have qualified for the AFC Challenge Cup 2024/25?
16 teams from across Asia have qualified for the tournament, including East Bengal (India), Bashundhara Kings (Bangladesh), Nejmeh SC (Lebanon), and Khujand (Tajikistan).
4. What is East Bengal's record in the AFC Challenge Cup?
East Bengal has never won the AFC Challenge Cup but has finished as runners-up once in 2013.
5. What are East Bengal's chances of winning the AFC Challenge Cup 2024/25?
With their impressive form and newfound financial stability, East Bengal has a good chance of winning the tournament. However, they will face stiff competition from other strong teams in the competition.
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