Diamantakos Brace Sinks Mohun Bagan, East Bengal Storm Into Semis

Ray Sportz Web Desk: The city’s heartbeat quickened once again as the iconic Kolkata Derby lit up the Salt Lake Stadium on Sunday night. In a fiery Durand Cup 2025 quarter-final clash, East Bengal edged arch-rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant 2–1, thanks to a stunning brace from Greek striker Dimitrios Diamantakos.The Red and Gold brigade, who had endured a six-match drought in senior derbies, finally found redemption.

Diamantakos struck first from the penalty spot in the 38th minute, sending thousands of East Bengal supporters into a frenzy. He returned after the break to double the lead just seven minutes into the second half, showcasing clinical finishing under pressure.Mohun Bagan, unbeaten in 19 matches at Salt Lake, fought back through Anirudh Thapa’s crisp 68th-minute strike, which offered a glimmer of hope. The Mariners pressed hard in the closing stages, but East Bengal’s defence, marshalled with grit, refused to yield.

The match was not short on drama. In the dying minutes, tempers boiled over as a rough challenge sparked a massive brawl, involving players and staff from both camps. Referees and officials scrambled to restore order in what was already a high-octane night of football.For East Bengal, the victory was more than just a semifinal ticket—it was a statement. The Red and Golds broke Bagan’s fortress, reigniting their dominance in Kolkata’s football folklore.

East Bengal now march on to the semifinals, where they will face the rising force Diamond Harbour FC, who stunned Jamshedpur FC earlier. For Mohun Bagan, the loss cuts deep, ending their unbeaten streak and reminding them that in the Derby, past form counts for little. Salt Lake once again proved that when Kolkata Derby fever grips the city, nothing else matters.