Kolkata, August 23, 2026: East Bengal FC produced a stunning performance in the Durand Cup final, defeating arch-rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant 4–1 at the Salt Lake Stadium on Sunday to lift the prestigious trophy after a 22-year wait.
The victory saw East Bengal claim their 17th Durand Cup title, bringing them level with Mohun Bagan’s tally of 17 titles. East Bengal had last won the competition in 2004.
Lalrindika’s Hat-Trick Decides the Kolkata Derby
East Bengal made a dream start to the final, with Bipin Singh opening the scoring in the 10th minute.
Just two minutes later, Edmund Lalrindika doubled East Bengal’s advantage. The striker struck again in the 22nd minute before completing his hat-trick in the 44th minute to give East Bengal a commanding 4–1 lead at half-time.
Mohun Bagan managed to pull one goal back through Manvir Singh in the 33rd minute, but East Bengal remained firmly in control.
The second half saw Mohun Bagan attempt to reduce the deficit, but East Bengal’s disciplined defence held firm to secure a convincing victory and the Durand Cup title.
22 Years Later, East Bengal Lift the Trophy
The triumph ended East Bengal’s long wait for the Durand Cup and also avenged their 0–1 defeat to Mohun Bagan in the 2023 final.
Lalrindika’s performance was the defining moment of the final. His three-goal first-half display made him the standout player as East Bengal turned the Kolkata Derby into a one-sided contest.
With both clubs now having 17 Durand Cup titles, the historic rivalry has added another memorable chapter to Indian football.
