Thimphu (Bhutan) Nov 1 (UNI) India’s East Bengal FC booked their place in the quarterfinals of the AFC Challenge League 2024-25 following a thrilling 3-2 win over Lebanon’s Nejmeh SC in their final Group A match at Changlimithang Stadium on Friday.
The victory cemented East Bengal’s position at the top of Group A, securing a direct path to the quarterfinals in March.
East Bengal set an early pace, taking a 2-0 lead through an own goal from Nejmeh’s Baba Musah in the eighth minute, followed by Dimitrios Diamantakos’ close-range strike seven minutes later. However, Nejmeh SC quickly retaliated, with Collins Opare finding the net in the 18th minute and Hussain Monther equalising with a free-kick just before half-time.
The Indian side regained their lead in the 77th minute when Diamantakos scored his second goal of the match from the penalty spot, following a foul on Madih Talal. Despite Nejmeh’s efforts to equalise, East Bengal’s defence held firm, sealing a vital win to end their group stage campaign with seven points.
East Bengal’s journey to the quarterfinals began with a 2-2 draw against Paro FC, followed by an impressive 4-0 win over Bashundhara Kings. Their top position in Group A was crucial for securing a direct berth in the next round.
The AFC Challenge League, previously known as the President’s Cup, is Asia’s third-tier continental club competition.
