Pratyusha Jana
East Bengal sealed their position in the IFA Shield Finals! They thrashed Namdhari Sports Academy with a 2-0, while it might have been a wider margin.
While East Bengal went all attack from the opening minute of the match. However, Namdhari has played quite an attacking role.
After today’s match many of the East Bengal players seemed to get injured. Talking about Oscar Bruzon, he stated, “Namdhari has played a rough game; they have tried to intimidate us, but I told my players about the emotional control.”
He added, “They have control over the match, and they have played very well.”
For the red and gold brigade, Mohammed Bassim Ahmed Rashid and Vishnu PV found the back of the net. Rashid opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a brilliant right-footed strike, followed by Vishnu’s precise low shot in the 42nd minute, giving East Bengal a comfortable 2-0 lead by halftime.
In the press conference, while talking about the game, Harpreet Singh, the Namdhari Sports Academy’s coach, stated, “We tried our best; a few players are injured now. It was a tough match today.”
It is widely anticipated that the IFA Shield final will be a classic Derby clash between Mohun Bagan Super Giants and East Bengal FC. Speaking on the upcoming encounter, Singh remarked, “Both teams are strong and have excellent players, but I feel Mohun Bagan may have an advantage. East Bengal have made several changes to their squad, so it will take time for the players to gel, whereas Mohun Bagan’s team remains more settled.”
Coach Óscar Bruzón appeared dissatisfied with the IFA’s management, expressing his concerns after the match. He stated, “We are one of the top teams in India and have participated in the IFA Shield numerous times. Yet, our first match was scheduled at Kalyani Stadium, where the field conditions were far from ideal.”
“The pitch was uneven, there was no proper irrigation system, and it posed a real risk for the players. We feel mistreated and cannot understand why our opening match had to be held there.”
In the second half, East Bengal tried to extend their advantage, but no further goals were scored. The IFA Shield final is scheduled for Saturday, as the club aims for its 30th title. With this win, East Bengal has now reached the final for the 41st time in the tournament’s storied history.
It is evident that the IFA Shield final is shaping up to be a thrilling Derby clash. Speaking about the speculation regarding Namdhari’s comments in favour of Mohun Bagan, Coach Óscar Bruzón responded firmly:
“How can anyone decide the outcome beforehand? Namdhari lost to us, and Mohun Bagan is yet to qualify for the final. How can anyone predict what will happen?!”
He added, “I have full faith in our players, and I am confident they can face any challenge that comes their way.”
