East Bengal came back from the grave to reach the Finals of the Durand Cup 2023. After going down 2-0 to Northeast United, Mahesh and Nandhakumar parried to equalize for the Red & Gold brigade. 

Prathib Gogoi missed in the shootout while East Bengal maintained their nerves to etch out a thrilling victory.

Zabaco who gave North East United the lead through an excellent header in the 22nd minute was sent off after picking up his second yellow card of the game in the 92nd minute. 

North East United who were leading 2-1 even in the additional time, had to concede the Nandhakumar Sekar strike in the 92nd minute to equalize the scoreline in the regulation time. East Bengal although had pressed their opposition to soak the pressure in their half, failed to create much chances. On the contrary, North East United FC also looked at trying to deliver a defensive approach despite leading 2-0. 

After the 90-minute regulation time ended 2-2, Prathib Gogoi turned out the villain in the penalty shoot-out. Despite getting the second opportunity in the penalty shoot-out after the East Bengal custodian was out of the line, Prathib hit the crucial shot to the bar, helping East Bengal reach the Durand Cup final for the 27th time.