East Bengal FC Crush Churchill Brothers 4-0 to Start ISL Campaign
Defending champions East Bengal FC start their ISL 2026-27 campaign with a dominant 4-0 victory over Churchill Brothers in Fatorda.
The defending champions, East Bengal FC, have sent a loud and clear message to the rest of the league by securing a dominant 4-0 victory over Churchill Brothers in their opening match of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27. In a display of sheer clinical precision at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Antonio Habas’ men recorded the biggest win of the season so far, leaving the home side shell-shocked.
Early Blitz and First-Half Dominance
The "Torchbearers" wasted no time in asserting their authority. Just two minutes into the game, Dani Ramírez silenced the home crowd with a moment of individual brilliance. Stepping up for a free-kick just outside the penalty area, the midfielder unleashed a stunning left-footed strike that curled perfectly into the top-left corner, giving East Bengal an immediate 1-0 lead.
Churchill Brothers did not go down without a fight. Reacting with urgency, the hosts ramped up the tempo and pushed forward in search of an equaliser. They created several dangerous opportunities and even struck the woodwork, but East Bengal's defensive line remained disciplined and impenetrable.
As the first half drew to a close, the visitors doubled their advantage through a beautifully choreographed attacking sequence. David Hmar controlled the ball on the left flank and held off his marker before spotting Edmund Lalrindika. Edmund timed his run into the box perfectly and slotted the ball past goalkeeper Sayad Kadir, ensuring East Bengal went into the tunnel with a comfortable 2-0 cushion.
Second Half: Bipin Singh Steals the Show
The second half began with both sides trading chances, but Churchill Brothers struggled to convert their possession into goals in the final third. Meanwhile, East Bengal remained composed, managing the game with the confidence of champions.
The game's turning point in the second period came when coach Antonio Habas introduced Bipin Singh. The substitute proved to be a masterstroke, as Singh took control of the closing stages of the match:
- 85th Minute: Bipin Singh scored a superb curling effort into the top corner to make it 3-0.
- 90th Minute: Just five minutes later, Bipin completed his brace, finishing a precise cross from PV Vishnu to seal the 4-0 rout.
What Lies Ahead?
For East Bengal FC, this resounding victory serves as a powerful statement of intent as they look to defend their title. For Churchill Brothers, this result is a setback after a promising start to their season, which had seen them secure a 1-0 win over Mumbai City FC.
The Goan side will now have a week to regroup and analyze their defensive lapses before they face Punjab FC in their next encounter.