Red And Gold Roar: East Bengal Down Mohun Bagan 2-0 in RFDL Derby

Last Updated:January 25, 2026, 20:28 IST

East Bengal beat Mohun Bagan SG 2-0 in the Kolkata Derby at Naihati Stadium, with Laikhuram Ricky Singh scoring twice.

News18

East Bengal concluded their Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) 2025–26 Regional Qualifiers campaign with a 2-0 victory over Mohun Bagan SG in a closely contested Kolkata Derby at the Naihati Stadium on Sunday.

The Red & Gold Brigade delivered a disciplined performance, overcoming the challenge of playing with ten men to secure all three points in their final fixture of the regional phase.

The first half was evenly contested, with East Bengal creating the clearer opportunities. They applied sustained pressure on the Mohun Bagan defence but were unable to convert their chances before the interval.

East Bengal made a decisive start to the second half, taking the lead in the 46th minute. Guite Vanlalpeka delivered a low cross into the penalty area, and Mohun Bagan defender Gurnaj Singh Grewal’s attempted clearance deflected off Laikhuram Ricky Singh and into the net.

Mohun Bagan responded by pushing forward in search of an equaliser, but East Bengal’s defence, led by Sonam Tsewang Lhokham, remained organised and resolute to deny the Mariners any clear opportunities.

Despite being reduced to ten players following Guite’s dismissal, East Bengal continued to show composure and attacking intent. Their resilience was rewarded in stoppage time when Laikhuram Ricky Singh completed his brace in the 92nd minute. Debojit Roy initiated a swift counter-attack, and after his initial effort was saved by Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Priyansh Dubey, Ricky Singh reacted quickest to slot home and double East Bengal’s advantage.

The result confirmed progression to the RFDL Zonal Group Stage for Mohun Bagan, East Bengal and Diamond Harbour, who also secured qualification with a 1-0 win over United SC.

News sports football Red And Gold Roar: East Bengal Down Mohun Bagan 2-0 in RFDL Derby

Read More