New Delhi: The final matchday of the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) 2024-25 Regional Qualifiers delivered intense drama as three teams—Mohun Bagan SG, East Bengal FC, and Diamond Harbour FC—secured their places in the next round. The highlight of the day was the much-anticipated RFDL Kolkata Derby, which saw Mohun Bagan SG and East Bengal FC battle it out in front of a passionate crowd at the Naihati Stadium.
A cagey Kolkata Derby ends in stalemate
Oitihashik Derby’r aro ek odhyay-er oboshan – point bhagabhagi laal-holud aar sobuj-maroon brigade-er! 💥
Watch full replay of the match here➡️ https://t.co/NqblOlx40L 🔗#RFDL #RFSports #LetsPlay #EastBengalFC #MohunBaganSG | @eastbengal_fc @mohunbagansg @IndSuperLeague pic.twitter.com/hNTYGK0zpY
— RF Youth Sports (@RFYouthSports) January 29, 2025
Mohun Bagan SG and East Bengal FC played out a goalless draw in a match that had everything but goals. The Mariners had a golden opportunity in the 31st minute when Tushar Biswakarma found himself one-on-one with the keeper, but East Bengal’s Gourab Shaw pulled off a brilliant save to keep the scores level.
East Bengal nearly broke the deadlock in the 65th minute when Aman CK’s pinpoint cross found Shyamal Besra, whose volley flew just wide of the post. Both sides pushed for a winner, but in the end, a draw was enough for both teams to progress to the next stage of the RFDL 2024-25.
After the match, Mohun Bagan SG Reserves Team Head Coach Deggie Cardozo praised his players’ determination and acknowledged the incredible support from the stands. “The players showed great character and desire. We have qualified, but the journey isn’t over yet. I’ve never seen such craze for football at this level. It’s incredible,” he said.
Meanwhile, the other fixtures saw Odisha FC secure a 2-0 win over Mohammedan Sporting Club, with goals from Kartik Hantal and Narendra Naik. Diamond Harbour FC wrapped up the qualifiers in style, thrashing United SC 6-1, with William Lalgoulien and Benjamin Lalnunpuia scoring braces.
The RFDL now moves to the Zonal Group Stage, where teams will continue their battle for a place in the national round. With the intensity and passion on display in Kolkata, the road ahead promises more thrilling encounters.
Deggie Cardozo praised Mohun Bagan SG’s determination after qualifying for the next RFDL stage, highlighting the overwhelming fan support during the Kolkata Derby, saying, ‘I’ve never seen such craze for football.’ Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
