Kolkata : The 134th Durand Cup semifinal between East Bengal FC and debutants Diamond Harbour FC at the iconic Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium) in Kolkata saw a thrilling but goalless first half. The match, which started at 7:00 PM IST, pitted Indian Super League side East Bengal—coming off an emotional Kolkata Derby quarterfinal victory over Mohun Bagan—against a fearless Diamond Harbour team that had already caused upsets against bigger teams like Jamshedpur FC.
East Bengal FC entered the tournament full of confidence after winning all their group matches with an emphatic style and then defeating Mohun Bagan 2-1 in the quarterfinal. Under the guidance of head coach Oscar Bruzon, the Red and Gold brigade are now eyeing their first Durand Cup title in years, having sought to avenge their loss in last year’s final.
Diamond Harbour FC’s journey has been remarkable for a Durand Cup debutant. Finishing second in their group behind Mohun Bagan Super Giant, they advanced on goal difference with wins over Mohammedan Sporting and a staggering 8-1 thrashing of Border Security Force. Their 2-0 quarterfinal win over Jamshedpur FC at the JRD Tata Sports Complex was one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.
The first half featured intense tactical battles, with East Bengal showcasing their fluid attacking play and Diamond Harbour defending resolutely while threatening on counters. Key players such as East Bengal’s Dimitrios Diamantakos, who recently brought his team victory in the derby, and Diamond Harbour’s strikers Luka Majcen and Clayton Silva have been pivotal.
Both sides will resume the second half eager to find the winning breakthrough. The winner will advance to face either Shillong Lajong FC or defending champions NorthEast United FC in the final scheduled for August 23, 2025.
Match Details:
Venue: Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata
Date & Time: August 20, 2025, 7:00 PM IST
Telecast: Sony Sports Network
Live Streaming: SonyLIV
With passionate home support and high stakes, the second half promises an exhilarating finish to this semifinal duel.This Durand Cup semifinal exemplifies the spirit and competitiveness of Indian football’s oldest tournament, held in Kolkata, the heartland of football in India. Fans await eagerly who will take the next step toward the coveted trophy on Saturday.
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