East Bengal’s AFC Champions League Hopes Dashed by Altyn Asyr

Sayak Banerjee / 15-08-2024

East Bengal’s dream of advancing in the AFC Champions League ended with a 3-2 defeat to Turkmenistan’s Altyn Asyr on August 15. Despite a strong start, defensive lapses proved costly as the visitors staged a clinical comeback.

The Red and Gold brigade took the lead in the 7th minute through David, who latched onto a precise through ball to beat the goalkeeper. However, Altyn Asyr responded with goals from Mirat Anayev and Nurmurat Selim, leaving East Bengal trailing 2-1 at halftime. The Turkmen club extended their lead in the 52nd minute through Mihail. Although Saul Crespo’s brilliant strike reduced the deficit, East Bengal missed a golden opportunity to equalize when Clayton Silva failed to convert a free kick in the dying moments.

This defeat relegates East Bengal to the AFC Challenge League, where coach Carlos Cuadrat aims to rebuild and seek redemption. Despite the setback, the team remains focused on their upcoming international commitments.