Durand Cup 2026: East Bengal face Indian Army in high-stakes quarterfinal after AFC success

Kolkata: Fresh from their comeback victory over Al Arabi in the AFC Champions League Two qualifying play-off, East Bengal now switch their focus to the Durand Cup quarterfinals, where they face a disciplined Indian Army Football Team with a semi-final spot on the line on Sunday.

The reigning Indian Super League champions enter the tie brimming with confidence after overturning an early deficit against Al Arabi to secure their place in the AFC Champions League Two group stage via a resounding 4-1 triumph on Wednesday.

Antonio López Habas' side will now look to carry that momentum straight into the Durand Cup knockout rounds.

East Bengal finished as runners-up in Group A behind city rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant, falling 0-1 to the Mariners in their opening Kolkata derby before responding with emphatic victories over CISF Protectors (8-0) and South United FC (5-0).

Habas' men have displayed considerable attacking threat, whilst Mohammed Rashid and Dani Ramírez provide flair and vision in midfield.

Anwar Ali's presence in defence will also prove crucial against an Indian Army squad that swept Group B with a maximum nine points.

The military side defeated Samaleswari Sporting 1-0, Baghpat FC 4-0, and Mohammedan SC 2-1 to reach the last eight.

Their structural discipline, physical presence, and danger from set pieces could present a distinct challenge for East Bengal.

Indian Army FT head coach Antony Ramesh made it clear that whilst his team respects East Bengal's quality, they will not be intimidated by the magnitude of the occasion.

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Unbeaten SC Delhi Favourites Heading Into Quarterfinals

The day's other quarterfinal in Ranchi pits undefeated SC Delhi against tournament debutants FC Raengdai.

SC Delhi topped Group C after claiming three wins from three matches, with Brazilian striker Rodriguinho emerging as one of the competition's leading goalscorers with six strikes.

Raengdai, by contrast, have proved to be one of the surprise packages of the 135th Durand Cup, finishing top of Group D in their inaugural campaign.

Forward Midul Doley has spearheaded their run, scoring three goals, including a hat-trick against TRAU FC.

The quarterfinal action kicks off with SC Delhi taking on Raengdai at 4:00 p.m. IST, followed by East Bengal's clash against Indian Army at 7:00 p.m. in Kolkata.

PTI