Durand Cup 2023: East Bengal beats Gokulam Kerala, secures Semifinal Berth- Highlights

East Bengal emerges victorious with a hard-fought 2-1 lead over Gokulam Kerala. Despite the valiant efforts from both sides, it's East Bengal that advances to the next stage of the tournament. 

Congratulations to East Bengal on their semifinal berth, and commiserations to Gokulam Kerala for their spirited performance.

East Bengal 2 - 1 Gokulam Kerala

An almost equalizing moment for Gokulam Kerala as Nili Pedromo sends in a cross from the left, aiming it towards the box. The delivery creates a scramble as several Gokulam Kerala players attempt to make contact with the ball.

However, Gill  takes charge. He charges out of his line and claims the ball, thwarting the potential danger and preserving his team's lead. 

Saul Crespo puts East Bengal FC back in front, though it appears to be an own goal. The attacking sequence started by Naorem Mahesh, he attempted to create an opportunity for Nishu Kumar, but the ball ended up finding Saul Crespo. However it seems the decisive touch might have come from a Gokulam Kerala defender. 

East Bengal 2 - 1 Gokulam Kerala

East Bengal's decision to shift into a defensive mode after taking the lead played right into Gokulam Kerala's hands, leading to the equalizer. The cautionary tale here is that opting to sit back and defend a one-goal advantage is always a risky strategy.

Gokulam Kerala capitalized on this opportunity, seizing the momentum shift to their advantage and finding the back of the net. With the scores now level, Gokulam Kerala is infused with a renewed sense of confidence.

And just like that, Gokulam Kerala finds the equalizer! Aminou Bouba shines once again, this time with a powerful bullet header that finds the back of the net.

The setup began from a corner, and even though the initial clearance seemed to alleviate the danger, Sreekuttan's persistence paid off. Collecting the ball outside the box, he created a sequence that led to a perfectly placed cross from the right side. Bouba's timing and precision were impeccable as he rose in the air to meet the cross, flicking the ball into the net.

East Bengal 1- 1  Gokulam Kerala

And here we go, the second half kicks off with a renewed spirit! The tension is palpable as both teams step back onto the field, each determined to seize control and shape the outcome of this thrilling Durand Cup quarterfinal clash between East Bengal and Gokulam Kerala.

Will we witness a comeback, a twist in the tale, or further brilliance on display? Buckle up, for another exhilarating 45 minutes of action!

As the halftime whistle blows, the scoreboard reads East Bengal 1, Gokulam Kerala 0. Stay tuned for the action-packed second half!