Fri Nov 01 13:43:16 UTC 2024: ## East Bengal Makes History, Qualifies for AFC Challenge League Knockouts
**Thimpu, Bhutan** – In a thrilling encounter, East Bengal FC secured a historic victory over Lebanon’s Nejmeh SC, earning a spot in the AFC Challenge League quarterfinals for the first time in 11 years.
The Kolkata club dominated the first half, with a stunning own goal by Nejmeh’s Al-Rida Ismail giving them an early lead in the 8th minute. Greek striker Dimitrios Diamantakos doubled the advantage just seven minutes later, capitalizing on a precise cross from Naorem Mahesh.
Despite the two-goal deficit, Nejmeh rallied back, scoring through Collins Opare in the 11th minute and equalizing with a beautiful free-kick from Hussein Monzer just before halftime.
The second half saw Nejmeh control possession and create numerous scoring chances, but East Bengal held firm. In the 75th minute, Diamantakos struck from the penalty spot after Nandhakumar Sekar was fouled inside the box, putting the Indian side back in the lead.
East Bengal goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Gill made several crucial saves in the final minutes, preserving the 3-2 victory.
This victory marks East Bengal’s second win of the season and a significant turnaround after a disappointing domestic league campaign. Their last appearance in the knockout stages of a continental tournament came in 2013, when they reached the AFC Cup semifinals.
The win signifies a resurgence for the Kolkata giants, who are now looking forward to the next stage of the tournament with renewed hope and determination.
First Piper 