East Bengal FC lost 2-3 to Al Shorta SC in their AFC Champions League Two group match, a result that kept them on a single point in Group D.
east bengal vs al-shorta match overview
The encounter was held at Kolkata's Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on 13 October 2026. David Lalhlansanga opened the scoring in the eighth minute and added a second before halftime, giving the home side a 2-0 lead.
acl two key moments
Al Shorta responded quickly, with Ahmed Yahya equalising in the 14th minute after a precise cut‑back from Ruben Ramírez. The Iraqi side took the lead shortly after the break when Hussein Al Saedi tapped in from a Yahya cross, and Kingsley Kuku added a header in the 53rd minute to make it 3-2.
afc champions league 2 – player performances
David Lalhlansanga was East Bengal's standout, netting twice and keeping the crowd engaged. Goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Singh Gill made several saves, including a crucial one‑handed parry in the 21st minute.
Al Shorta's Ahmed Yahya, Hussein Al Saedi and Kingsley Kuku each contributed a goal, showcasing the depth of the eight‑time Iraqi league champions.
al shorta sc tactical notes
Al Shorta displayed efficient wing play and capitalised on set‑pieces. Kuku's header came from a corner that deflected off Gill’s arm before finding the net.
east bengal fc future prospects
With just one point, East Bengal sits third in the group and must secure a win in their next fixture against Al Seeb Club in Oman on 27 October to stay in contention.
Despite the loss, the team created several chances and will look to build on the attacking spark provided by Lalhlansanga.
Related coverage
For another recent Champions League encounter, see the Arsenal vs LOSC match report.
Sources: All India Football Federation, Telegraph India, The Hindu.
