East Bengal vs Namdhari, IFA Shield 2025, Live Score & Updates: East Bengal took firm control of their IFA Shield 2025 clash against Namdhari FC, leading 2-0 at half-time at the Kishore Bharati Stadium.
Mohammad Bin Rashid opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a brilliant strike from outside the box, while PV Vishnu doubled the advantage in the 41st minute after a fine link-up with David and Bipin. Despite Namdhari's slight edge in possession, East Bengal looked far more threatening and now sit comfortably ahead at the break.
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Both teams have been in fine form in the group stage. East Bengal registered a dominant 4-0 victory over Sreenidi Deccan FC, while Namdhari FC impressed with a 3-0 win against the same opponent. This sets up a tantalising battle for the top spot in the group, with the final ticket on the line.
The eventual group topper will face either Mohun Bagan Super Giant or United SC in the tournament final, scheduled for October 18. In Group B, both Mohun Bagan and United SC have already defeated Gokulam Kerala and will meet on Wednesday, October 15, to decide their finalist.
For East Bengal, this tournament holds special significance - they last lifted the IFA Shield trophy in 2012 and are now eyeing a return to glory. On the other hand, Namdhari FC, one of the rising sides in Indian football, will be eager to script history by reaching their maiden final.
Historically, Mohun Bagan remain the second-most successful team in the IFA Shield, having won 20 titles, with their last triumph coming in 2003.
With the current standings hinting at a possible East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan final, fans are buzzing with excitement at the thought of witnessing a Kolkata Derby in the 50th edition of the IFA Shield - a fitting tribute to India's oldest football rivalry and a grand celebration of Kolkata's football heritage.
