Barrackpore, January 25, 2026 - In a thrilling encounter at the Barrackpore Stadium, East Bengal emerged victorious against Mohun Bagan with a 2-0 win in the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) Derby. The match, held on Sunday, saw the "Red and Gold" brigade dominate their arch-rivals, securing a crucial victory in the Zonal Group Stage.
The victory was hard-earned, with both teams displaying skill and determination throughout the match. East Bengal's Sayan Banerjee and Shyamal Besra etched their names onto the scoresheet, while goalkeeper Gourab Shaw proved to be a formidable wall, even saving a penalty from Mohun Bagan's Suhail Bhat.
The match was a captivating contest between two teams with rich legacies. East Bengal's victory marked a significant moment in their RFDL campaign, providing a strong foundation for their ambitions in the league. Mohun Bagan, on the other hand, will be looking to bounce back from this defeat and regain their momentum.
The importance of this match extends beyond just three points. The Kolkata Derby is known as one of the biggest rivalries in Asian football, and matches often see large audience attendance. The passion and energy surrounding this rivalry were evident both on and off the pitch.
The RFDL serves as a crucial platform for young talents from both sides, providing them an opportunity to showcase their abilities. These matches offer a glimpse into the future stars of Indian football, with players gaining invaluable experience in a competitive environment.
Looking back, the two teams have met before in this championship. In previous encounters, Mohun Bagan edged out a 1-0 victory in one match, while another ended in a goalless stalemate. In March 2024, Mohun Bagan secured a dominant 5-1 victory over East Bengal.
This year, East Bengal managed to turn the tide in their favour. The team scored a goal in the first half and another in the second. Mohun Bagan responded with one. Ultimately, East Bengal secured a 2-1 victory.
The Kolkata Derby continues to be a significant event in the Indian football calendar. East Bengal's recent victory will undoubtedly boost the morale of their players and fans. As the RFDL season progresses, both teams will be aiming to build on their performances and strive for success in the league.
