Sport · India Bureau
East Bengal Advances to Durand Cup Final After Delhi Shootout Victory
East Bengal progressed to the Durand Cup 2026 final on Wednesday, edging SC Delhi 5-3 in a penalty shootout following a tense goalless draw in regulation time.
LSN India ·
East Bengal secured their place in the Durand Cup final with a composed display from the penalty spot, converting five of their attempts while restricting SC Delhi to three successful conversions. The semifinal encounter at the historic tournament remained deadlocked through 90 minutes of competitive football, forcing the tie into the decisive penalty phase.
Both sides created scoring opportunities during regular play, but neither could find the breakthrough as defenses remained resolute throughout the match. The intensity of the contest reflected the high stakes of reaching the Durand Cup showpiece, one of Indian football's most prestigious competitions.
East Bengal's clinical finishing in the shootout proved decisive, with goalkeeper saves and missed conversions from SC Delhi contributing to their elimination. The victory marks East Bengal's progression to the final, where they will face the winner of the other semifinal.
The Durand Cup 2026 continues to showcase competitive Indian football, with East Bengal now positioned to contest the trophy. The club's penalty shootout expertise will be tested further when they take on their finalist opponent in what promises to be a compelling climax to the tournament.