East Bengal FC Stages Thrilling Comeback to Draw with Bengaluru FC in ISL Clash

Dramatic Encounter Ends in 3-3 Stalemate

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], April 16: In an exhilarating match in the Indian Super League 2025-26, East Bengal FC showcased their fighting spirit by coming back from behind three times to secure a thrilling 3-3 draw against Bengaluru FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Thursday.

Despite facing a setback with only ten players in the first half, the Red and Gold Brigade displayed incredible determination. Goals from Anwar Ali, Saul Crespo, and Anton Sjøberg helped them equalize against strikes from Ashique Kuruniyan, Suresh Singh Wangjam, and Ryan Williams.

With this result, both teams now have 15 points, placing East Bengal third on goal difference after eight matches, while Bengaluru FC sits fourth, having played one additional game. Saul Crespo earned the Player of the Match title for his significant impact in midfield.

The match kicked off with high energy, as East Bengal quickly took the initiative. Bipin Singh tested Bengaluru's defense early on, while the visitors responded with rapid counter-attacks, setting the stage for an exciting and open game.

Bengaluru opened the scoring in the 12th minute, thanks to a brilliant strike from Ashique Kuruniyan. After receiving a pass from Sirojiddin Kuziev on the left, he created space and unleashed a stunning right-footed shot from distance that found the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Singh Gill helpless.

East Bengal quickly responded, leveling the match in the 21st minute. Following a corner from Miguel Ferreira, Kevin Sibille's header fell awkwardly in the six-yard box, allowing Anwar Ali to execute an audacious overhead kick that found the back of the net, making it 1-1.

The match took a pivotal turn in the 24th minute when East Bengal was reduced to ten men. Miguel Ferreira received a straight red card after an incident near the dugout, intensifying the already heated match.

Despite being a man down, East Bengal continued to pose a threat, but Bengaluru regained the lead just before halftime. Ryan Williams delivered a low cross that was mishandled by Gill, allowing Suresh Singh to capitalize and score from close range, giving Bengaluru a 2-1 lead at the break.

Bengaluru controlled the second half initially, dominating possession and forcing Gill into several saves from attempts by Kuziev and Rahul Bheke. However, East Bengal struck back in the 56th minute when Saul Crespo seized an opportunity just outside the box, firing a precise left-footed shot into the bottom corner to equalize at 2-2.

The visitors responded again, taking the lead in the 72nd minute. Substitute Soham Varshneya played a perfectly timed through ball to Ryan Williams, who skillfully evaded Gill and finished from a tight angle, making it 3-2.

Bengaluru aimed to secure the win, maintaining possession and creating chances, but East Bengal's defense held strong under pressure. The hosts continued to push for another equalizer despite their numerical disadvantage.

In a dramatic finish, East Bengal's persistence paid off in the 96th minute. A well-executed move led to Anton Sjøberg finding space in the box, and he calmly slotted home a left-footed shot to complete an incredible comeback.

The match concluded with a 3-3 draw, highlighting East Bengal's resilience and earning them a crucial point, while Bengaluru FC was left to ponder missed opportunities for a win.