East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan Highlights: The CFL Kolkata Derby ended in a 1-1 draw on Monday as a young East Bengal FC side held Mohun Bagan Super Giant in an intense rain-soaked clash at Barasat Stadium. The Mariners, who fielded several first-team players, controlled much of the opening half and took the lead through Manvir Singh in the 38th minute of the Calcutta Football League 2026 fixture.
East Bengal, however, responded strongly after the break and found their equaliser through substitute Mohamed Bilal in the 64th minute. Both teams continued to search for a winner late on, but neither could find the decisive touch.
The result will be particularly encouraging for East Bengal, with their reserves standing firm against an experienced Mohun Bagan SG line-up. The Mariners enjoyed more than 60 per cent possession during the first half, but East Bengal’s disciplined defensive approach kept them from creating clear opportunities for long spells.
Manvir Singh breaks deadlock in CFL Kolkata Derby
Mohun Bagan Super Giant began the Calcutta Football League match on the front foot, with Apuia helping marshal the midfield while Sahal Abdul Samad and Kiyan Nassiri looked to create openings. East Bengal FC largely sat in two lines of four and relied on counter-attacks.
The Mariners eventually broke through in the 38th minute. A long ball caused problems for the East Bengal defence, allowing Manvir Singh to collect possession before shooting between Ankan Bhattacharjee’s legs and finding the near post beyond Gourab Shaw.
East Bengal almost responded immediately after half-time. Bijay Murmu’s first-time effort from inside the box was blocked by Subhasish. Murmu then missed another excellent opportunity in the 61st minute, shooting into the side netting with the goal open.
East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan Highlights: Mohamed Bilal header seals 1-1 draw
East Bengal’s persistence finally paid off in the 64th minute. From a corner, Mohamed Bilal rose highest and glanced a header towards the far post to make it 1-1.
The closing stages produced chances at both ends. In the 84th minute, Shaw made a crucial fingertip save to tip a dangerous header over the crossbar. East Bengal also continued threatening through long balls, while Mohun Bagan pushed forward in search of a late winner.
Six minutes of stoppage time were added, but neither side could break the deadlock again. After the East Bengal FC vs Mohun Bagan SG CFL Kolkata Derby finished 1-1, attention will now shift towards the Indian Super League 2026-27, which is around a month away. Both city rivals will be keen to make a strong statement in the first ISL clash of the season.
