Sahal Abdul Samad Scores Winner as Mohun Bagan Beat East Bengal 1-0 in Durand Cup 2026 Kolkata Derby

Mohun Bagan Super Giant began their Durand Cup 2026 campaign with a memorable 1-0 victory over arch-rivals East Bengal in the opening Kolkata Derby at Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday. Sahal Abdul Samad’s second-half strike proved to be the difference as the Mariners secured local bragging rights and an ideal start to the new season.

Sahal Abdul Samad Delivers the Decisive Moment

The breakthrough arrived in the 53rd minute when East Bengal lost possession while attempting to build from the back. Kiyan Nassiri capitalized on the mistake, winning the ball from Rohit Kumar before driving forward and delivering a low cross into the box.

Manvir Singh’s movement distracted the defenders, allowing Sahal Abdul Samad to arrive unmarked and tap the ball into the net. The goal marked Samad’s first-ever strike in a Kolkata Derby and highlighted his determination to earn a larger role this season.

After the match, Samad credited the collective effort behind the goal, describing it as a true team move rather than an individual moment of brilliance.

Fresh Faces Get Their Opportunity

The Durand Cup opener featured an unusual sight as both teams started with predominantly Indian lineups. With the new season approaching, coaches Panagiotis Dilmperis and Antonio Lopez Habas used the tournament as an opportunity to evaluate squad players and fringe members.

For Mohun Bagan, players such as Kiyan Nassiri and Sahal Abdul Samad seized their opportunity to impress, while East Bengal handed valuable minutes to several squad members as they continue preparations for the upcoming Indian Super League campaign.

East Bengal Push for an Equaliser

Following the goal, East Bengal increased their attacking intensity. Habas introduced key players including PV Vishnu, Mohamad Rashid and Daniel Fernandez in an attempt to change the game.

The substitutions helped East Bengal gain greater control of possession and create several promising chances. Rashid forced an excellent save from goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, while Lalchungnunga and Fernandez both came close to finding an equaliser.

Despite the pressure, Mohun Bagan’s defence remained organized and protected their slender advantage until the final whistle.

Vishal Kaith Plays a Key Role

Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith delivered a composed performance between the posts. His crucial saves during the closing stages prevented East Bengal from leveling the score and ensured the Mariners walked away with all three points.

Kaith’s presence and decision-making under pressure proved decisive as East Bengal launched repeated attacks in search of a late equaliser.

Competition for Places Intensifies at Mohun Bagan

The arrival of new signings has increased competition throughout the Mohun Bagan squad. Serbian winger Dezan Drazic made his debut appearance, while established stars such as Liston Colaco and Manvir Singh face strong competition for starting spots.

With Australian striker Jamie MacLaren yet to join the squad and Lallianzuala Chhangte also arriving, the Durand Cup provides an important platform for players to prove their value before the ISL season begins.

Coaches React After the Match

East Bengal coach Antonio Lopez Habas expressed disappointment with the result but remained encouraged by his team’s overall display. He pointed to several missed opportunities and praised his players’ effort despite the defeat.

Mohun Bagan coach Panagiotis Dilmperis acknowledged that his side is still adapting to his methods, having completed only a few training sessions together. Nevertheless, he welcomed the victory and the positive signs shown by several players.

What the Result Means

The win gives Mohun Bagan early momentum in the Durand Cup and boosts confidence ahead of the new campaign. For East Bengal, the defeat serves as a reminder that improvements are still needed despite an encouraging second-half performance.

With both clubs expected to challenge for major honors during the 2026-27 season, the opening Kolkata Derby offered an early glimpse of what could become another fiercely contested rivalry campaign.

Conclusion

Sahal Abdul Samad’s crucial goal ensured Mohun Bagan claimed a 1-0 victory over East Bengal in the opening match of the 135th Durand Cup. While East Bengal created opportunities to equalize, Mohun Bagan’s defensive resilience and clinical finishing ultimately made the difference in another memorable Kolkata Derby.