East Bengal crushes CISF Protectors 8-0 in the Durand Cup; Equals Record For Higest Goal Margin Win
The scoreline, however, could have been even more lopsided. In addition to the eight goals scored, attempts from Edmund, Nunga, and David hit the woodwork including a shot from Edmund that struck the crossbar
XtraTime Newsweek: East Bengal cruised to a dominant 8-0 victory over the CISF Protectors, essentially securing valuable match practice ahead of their next tough fixture. This commanding performance equals the record for the highest goal margin win in Durand Cup history, matching Dempo’s 9-1 defeat of Real Kashmir in 2016. Antonio Lopez Habas' side firmly etched their names alongside that historic record today.
The scoreline, however, could have been even more lopsided. In addition to the eight goals scored, attempts from Edmund, Nunga, and David hit the woodwork including a shot from Edmund that struck the crossbar. East Bengal were also denied a strong penalty appeal, illustrating just how heavily they dominated the game.
The coaching staff utilized the opportunity to rotate the squad, resting several key players and giving others valuable minutes. Even after taking off foreign recruits Madih Talal and Saul Crespo once the fourth goal went in, the offensive onslaught continued unabated. PV Vishnu netted a brilliant hat-trick, Jason Cummings scored a brace, while Jeakson Singh and David Lalhlansanga added one each. The final goal came courtesy of an own goal forced by intense pressure.
Midfielder Saul Crespo acted as the team's ringmaster for as long as he was on the field, orchestrating the play and instigating the movements that led to the first three goals. Meanwhile, Habas handed a debut to goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Gill’s backup, Debjit Majumder, who replaced him in the starting lineup. The debutant had an incredibly quiet evening, serving as a mere spectator as the opposition failed to test him even once.
Following their recent derby defeat, East Bengal must win their remaining matches to put themselves in contention as one of the best second-placed teams in the group stage. With goal difference playing a crucial role in qualification, this resounding eight-goal victory provides a massive boost and immense relief to the Red and Yellow brigade.