East Bengal ended a 22-year Durand Cup wait with a stunning 4-1 win over Mohun Bagan. Here are five tactical strategies that helped Antonio Habas’ side dominate the historic Kolkata derby final.
Coach Antonio Lopez Habas built a super organised defence, which was a big reason for East Bengal's success in the Durand Cup 2026. Defenders like Anwar Ali, Joy Gupta, and Hardik Bhat not only stopped attacks but also joined the offence when needed. Before the semi-finals, the team had scored 14 goals in four matches and let in only one.
In the final, Habas used a 'defensive low block' to shut down Mohun Bagan. The team defended deep, cutting off space for the opposition's attackers. This meant even when Mohun Bagan's players got the ball, they couldn't get into dangerous positions. They just couldn't break this defensive wall in the second half.
The Red and Gold brigade didn't just sit back and defend. Their plan to quickly move from midfield to attack was another masterstroke. Mohammed Rashid's leadership and Dani Ramirez's creativity gave their attacks serious pace. They won the ball in defence and moved it forward so fast that Mohun Bagan had no time to regroup. This quick transition football made East Bengal look deadly in the first half.
Another major strength for East Bengal was their clinical finishing. They took almost every chance they got. In the final, Bipin Singh scored right at the start. Then, Edmund Lalrindika smashed three goals in a row, putting the game firmly in East Bengal's hands. Scoring four goals in just one half showed everyone how important it is to make your chances count.
Finally, it all came down to mental strength. East Bengal was under huge pressure, playing a Kolkata Derby with the goal of winning the Durand Cup after 22 years. Plus, their semi-final match against SC Delhi had gone to a tense penalty shootout. But the team held its nerve and carried that confidence into the final. Reports also said that coach Habas gave the players proper rest to beat fatigue. As a result, East Bengal looked much more prepared, both physically and mentally.
So, winning the Durand Cup after 22 years wasn't just about Edmund's hat-trick or one great final. It was the result of five brilliant tactics working together: an organised defence, a solid low block, midfield control, quick transitions, sharp finishing, and a strong mindset. This perfect game plan is what led East Bengal to a historic 4-1 victory over Mohun Bagan.
