Representing India on the biggest stage: East Bengal qualifies for the AFC Champions League Two

East Bengal are set to represent India in AFC ACL Two next season. (Image credits—The Run Of Play)

Indian football witnessed a historic moment and will be remembered for a long time. East Bengal secured a dramatic 4-1 victory over Kuwait’s Al Arabi at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan on Wednesday in the AFC ACL 2 qualifier.

The Indian Super League champions seemed destined for yet another heartbreak when Anayo Iwuala's 75th-minute penalty put Al Arabi up front.

However, East Bengal showcased remarkable fighting spirit and produced a stunning comeback to secure their spot in the AFC Champions League Two group stage.

This victory is not only significant for East Bengal but also for Indian football. The Red and Golds became the first Indian club to defeat a side from Kuwait in a continental competition.

With one of the richest legacies in Indian football, it was another landmark moment on a night that cemented their legacy in continental football.

The opening half didn't have much in it, and no one could've even imagined what was about to come. Both teams began with high intensity, with the visitors threatening early, while Mohammed Rashid tested the keeper with a powerful strike.

Al Arabi’s best chance came when Iwuala made a brilliant run in the 50th minute, leaving Anwar Ali grounded before seeing his shot blocked by goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Gill. East Bengal's best chance came when Bipin Singh was through one-on-one with the keeper, but he fluffed the finish after a brilliant counterattack.

In the 75th minute, young defender Sandip Mandi brought down Maleko inside the box, giving the visitors a penalty. Iwuala stepped up and calmly tucked it in from 12 yards. East Bengal was behind, and their AFC ACL Two hopes appeared to be slipping away.

However, as the clock approached the 90th minute mark, East Bengal earned a free kick, and Rashid delivered a delicious cross into the box, and full-back Jay Gupta rose to head past a helpless Abdulghafoor guarding the goal in the 90th minute, forcing the match into extra time.

This goal completely changed the game's momentum, and the home side entered the extra time with full confidence and belief. The breakthrough arrived in the second half of extra time when Rashid produced a moment of brilliance, smashing a powerful shot beyond the reach of the Al Arabi goalkeeper.

David Lalhalsanga added a third in the 117th minute before new signing Rohit Danu put the icing on the cake, scoring the fourth goal. From being behind 1-0 with just 15 minutes remaining, East Bengal won this game comprehensively with a statement victory.

The experienced Antonio Lopez Habas, who has taken the charge of East Bengal this season, has delivered the club's continental dreams already by qualifying for the second tier of Asian football.

East Bengal is the only club from India to represent in the AFC ACL Two next season while FC Goa will play in the AFC Challenge League after losing the qualifier game against Arkadag by 3-0.

East Bengal now awaits the AFC Champions League Two group stage, with the draw scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur on August 18.

This achievement is significant, especially because of the current difficult circumstances surrounding Indian football and even East Bengal in recent years.

The Red and Gold brigade showcased resilience, and they will aim to replicate their continental success as they're the only Indian club with international trophies in their cabinet.

The fans came to the Salt Lake stadium and witnessed history as East Bengal will proudly carry the Indian flag and represent it in Asia.