East Bengal FC kept their AIFF Super Cup semifinal hopes alive with a dominant 4-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC in Group A action on Tuesday, a result that also sealed Chennaiyin’s elimination from the tournament
after two straight losses.
Thounaojam Bipin Singh was the star of the evening, netting a first-half brace (39’, 45+1’) to put the game beyond reach, while Kevin Sibille opened the scoring in the 35th minute. Hiroshi Ibusuki added the finishing touch with a penalty in stoppage time, marking his first goal for the club.
Chennaiyin began brightly, pressing high and creating early pressure. Farukh Choudhary came closest, weaving past defenders before forcing a strong save from Prabhsukhan Singh Gill. For much of the opening 30 minutes, East Bengal struggled to settle, pinned back in their own half.
But the game turned on a set piece — Mahesh Singh’s pinpoint free-kick in the 35th minute found Sibille, who rose highest to head home and ignite the Red and Gold supporters. From there, East Bengal grew in confidence, punishing Chennaiyin’s defensive lapses with quick transitions and clinical finishing.
With this emphatic win, East Bengal have not only boosted their goal difference but also stayed firmly in contention for a semifinal berth.
(with PTI inputs)
