AFC Challenge League 2024: East Bengal FC trail against FK Arkadag after narrow 0-1 loss

The Torchbearers were not up to the mark against the Yokáry Liga champions.

Indian Super League (ISL) club East Bengal FC slumped to a 1-0 defeat in the first leg game against FK Arkadag in the AFC Challenge League. The game was decided in the 10th minute after Yazgylyç Gurbanow gave the visitors a deserved early lead.

The Torchbearers were expected to be the favorites in the home fixture against the Turkmenistan champions. However, the early strike really dented any hopes of a positive result for the home side.

The first leg of the AFC Challenge League ends in loss for East Bengal, with Yazgylych Gurbanov's goal separating sides! They will face FK Arkadag yet again on March 12 as they aim to book a semifinal berth! #IndianFootball #AFC #AFCChallengeLeague #AFC #EastBengal #EBFCvsARK pic.twitter.com/MjGx6CtMQ9

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) March 5, 2025

East Bengal FC were not at the races

The Indian side had a sloppy and slow start unlike the usual expectations. Apart from the international players like Dimitrios Diamantakos, and Raphael Messi Bouli, Indian players struggled to move the ball.

Oscar Bruzon’s side did respond well to that early shock goal, who had their moments however converting chances in attacking areas was a huge problem. While they had some real good opportunities in the six-yard box, the Torchbearers failed to trouble Rasul Çaryyew between the sticks.

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FK Arkadag showed great spirit against Oscar Bruzon’s men

Despite having only 31 per cent possession throughout the game, the Turkmenistan side remained organized throughout the game. They were defensively solid and won 51% of their aerial duels while making 10 interceptions to snuff out any East Bengal threats.

The Turkmenistan side won 53% of their duels and showed great awareness to stop EBFC from hurting them. The one goal lead provides a golden opportunity for Arkadag to take a lead back home in Turkmenistan.

Oscar Bruzon’s men will need a miracle

Knowing that another defeat or draw could mean elimination, the Torchbearers will now look to do the improbable. Scoring a goal away from home in the opposition’s patch is always gonna be challenging, however the Spaniard’s men will be determined to get level and even win the tie in Turkmenistan.

One of the brightest spots in the game was the performance of East Bengal right-back Lalchungnunga, who looked brightest among the Indian players in the lineup. The side was also missing the services of star defender Anwar Ali, who has also been a star turn under Bruzon this term.

Ahead of the second leg in Turkmenistan, the Torchbearers will have plenty of time to get their plans in order and find ways to win the tie. While Bruzon will be worried about player sharpness ahead of the second leg, EBFC will have all the fuel they need ahead of possibly one of their biggest games of the season.

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