August 21, 2025

Kolkata is buzzing with excitement as Diamond Harbour FC (DHFC), a fresh new club born in April 2022, has emerged as a powerful force in Indian football. While many Indian Super League (ISL) teams struggle, DHFC is proving it’s not just those clubs who can dream big. They stunned everyone by beating East Bengal 2-1 in the thrilling semi-final of the 134th Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest football tournament and the world’s third oldest! Coach Kibu Vicuna, the 53-year-old Spanish tactician known for his sharp strategies, had said before the match, “We can be better but we cannot do more.” But his team went beyond expectations. Even East Bengal, who had beaten ISL champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant with ease, could not shake DHFC’s spirit. The match at Salt Lake Stadium was electric with 18,960 fans roaring, though only a few hundred backed DHFC. Early on, Mikel Kortazar dazzled with a stunning back-heel volley to give DHFC the lead. East Bengal’s Anwar Ali slammed in a powerful equalizer just one minute later, but that was not the end. Diamond Harbour’s Jobby Justin, a former East Bengal player, struck a crucial winner amid a chaotic goal-mouth scramble. Despite East Bengal’s relentless attacks, with players like Miguel Ferreira and Dimitrios Diamantikos hitting the frame or missing clear chances, DHFC held their nerve. Goalkeeper Koottappuna Mirshad, another ex-East Bengal star, became the hero with spectacular saves and brave blocks. The team’s defense formed a strong low block, absorbing pressure and countering smartly. Vicuna’s 4-3-3 tactic was spot on, with forwards tracking back and holding midfield steady. Even East Bengal’s forced changes, including the hurried inclusion of Mohamad Bashim who flew in from the USA after his father’s death, could not break DHFC. The moment of magic came in the 66th minute when Kortazar back-heeled a shot from a Paul Ramfangzauva free-kick to score the winning goal. East Bengal hit back immediately, but DHFC’s solid defense kept them at bay until the final whistle. “We are here to stay,” Vicuna proudly said. In five years coaching in India, he has never lost to East Bengal, and this victory cements DHFC’s rising star status. Next up for DHFC is a daunting final against defending champions NorthEast United, who beat Shillong Lajong 1-0. The stage is set for an epic showdown. Will this young diamond from Bengal shine the brightest? Stay tuned!

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Tags: Diamond harbour fc, East bengal, Durand cup, Indian football, Kibu vicuna, Football upset,