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.

Ray Sportz Web Desk: Emami East Bengal FC has strengthened its squad for the 2025–26 season by signing Brazilian midfielder Miguel Figueira, Palestinian midfielder Mohammed Rashid, and Argentine defender Kevin Sibille.
All three players bring international experience and are expected to play key roles under head coach Oscar Bruzon. Figueira reunites with Bruzon after a successful stint at Bangladesh’s Bashundhara Kings. Rashid, a regular for the Palestinian national team, adds defensive solidity to the midfield, while Sibille, a River Plate Academy graduate, arrives from Spanish side SD Ponferradina to bolster the defense.
Coach Bruzon expressed confidence in the trio’s ability to make an immediate impact. “These are quality players who fit our tactical framework,” he said.
The players expressed excitement at joining East Bengal and looked forward to playing in front of passionate Kolkata fans.

Ray Sportz Web Desk: Indian national team winger Bipin Singh Thounaojam has officially joined Emami East Bengal FC on a two-year contract, with an option to extend for a further year. The 29-year-old joins the Red & Gold Brigade on a free transfer from Mumbai City FC, where he spent seven years, making a record 158 appearances and scoring 28 goals with 17 assists.
Renowned for his speed and attacking flair, Bipin will wear jersey number 29. Welcoming him, Emami East Bengal’s Head of Football Thangboi Singto praised Bipin’s creativity and goal-scoring prowess, while Head Coach Oscar Bruzon highlighted his international pedigree and experience as key to strengthening the squad.
Bipin, who made his India debut in 2021, expressed excitement about joining the historic club, vowing to give his all to help East Bengal win titles and create memories for the fans.