East Bengal Lose to FC Arkadag in AFC Challenge League Quarterfinal First Leg

Indian Super League (ISL) side East Bengal lost to FC Arkadag of Turkmenistan 0-1 in the first leg of their AFC Challenge League quarterfinal match in Kolkata. The defeat puts them in a tough spot ahead of the return leg.

A Tough Night for East Bengal

The only goal of the match came early, as Yazguly Gurbanow found the net for FC Arkadag in the 10th minute at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan. Despite creating several chances, East Bengal struggled to break through Arkadag’s defensive setup.

“It was a tough game, but we still have a second leg to turn things around,” said East Bengal’s coach Oscar Bruzon after the match.

Road to the Quarterfinals

• East Bengal secured their place in the tournament by winning the 2024 Super Cup.
• The Indian club finished top of Group A with seven points, while Arkadag won Group B with six points.
• This competition serves as the third tier of the men’s AFC club football structure, giving clubs across Asia a chance to compete at an international level.

When and Where is the Second Leg?

• Date: March 12, 2025
• Venue: Turkmenistan
• Live Streaming: To be announced

Key Players to Watch in the Second Leg

• Cleiton Silva (East Bengal): The experienced forward needs to step up to provide the attacking spark.
• Yazguly Gurbanow (FC Arkadag): The match-winner from the first leg will be a threat once again.
• Nandhakumar Sekar (East Bengal): His pace and creativity could help unlock Arkadag’s defense.

What’s at Stake?

1. A place in the AFC Challenge League semifinals.
2. East Bengal’s hopes of making history in continental football.
3. FC Arkadag’s chance to establish themselves as a force in Asian club football.

Can East Bengal Turn It Around?

Despite the first-leg loss, East Bengal still have a chance to qualify for the semifinals. A strong performance in Turkmenistan on March 12 could see them overturn the deficit and continue their AFC journey. Fans will be hoping for a big response from the Red and Gold brigade!

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