East Bengal FC launched its Indian Super League 2025-26 campaign in style, defeating NorthEast United FC 3-0 with a dominant second-half display.
New signing Youssef Ezzejjari announced himself in emphatic fashion, scoring twice on debut, while Brazilian midfielder Miguel Ferreira sealed the victory deep into added time.
The Red and Gold Brigade set the tone early, pressing high and dictating play throughout the first half. Their intensity kept NorthEast pinned back, with the left-sided partnership of Bipin Singh and Jay Gupta causing repeated problems. The duo combined cleverly to carve out several openings, stretching the Highlanders’ defence and delivering dangerous balls into the box.
Ezzejjari had an early chance to mark his debut with a goal but missed from close range. The clearest opportunity before the break arrived in the 36th minute when Basim Rashid unleashed a powerful strike that crashed against the crossbar. Ferreira also threatened five minutes later, rising well inside the penalty area, only to see his header drift over.
Despite East Bengal’s control, the score remained goalless at half-time. NorthEast relied on counter-attacks but struggled to break through a well-organised home side. Their attempts to attack through the wings lacked precision in the final third, leaving the goalkeeper largely untested.
The absence of Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie was evident. Last season’s Golden Boot and Golden Ball winner had moved on loan to the Indonesian league, and NorthEast appeared short of cutting edge without him.
The breakthrough finally came in the 65th minute. Bipin Singh delivered a pinpoint cross from the left, and Ezzejjari rose highest to head home the opener. Six minutes later, the Spanish striker struck again. Substitute Edmund Lalrindika provided a clever back pass inside the box, allowing Ezzejjari to finish calmly and double the advantage.
Ferreira capped the performance in added time with a sharp finish from a tight angle, underlining East Bengal’s superiority.
The comprehensive win not only secured three points but also sent a strong message to the rest of the league. East Bengal’s blend of new signings and cohesive teamwork suggests they could be serious contenders as the season unfolds.
