East Bengal FC’s search for their first victory in the AFC Champions League Two 2026-27 continued after they played out a goalless draw against Oman’s Al Seeb Club at the Al Seeb Stadium on Tuesday.
The Indian side battled hard in an evenly contested Group Stage encounter but failed to convert their opportunities, settling for a point in their third match of the competition.
The result leaves East Bengal third in the group standings with two points from three matches, while Al Seeb remains bottom with one point. Iraq’s Al Shorta leads the group with seven points, followed by Jordan’s Al Hussein on five.
Playing in familiar surroundings, Al Seeb made an aggressive start and threatened East Bengal’s defence early.
Abdulmageed Al Balushi produced the first meaningful attempt in the eighth minute, forcing goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa into action with a powerful strike.
The hosts continued pressing forward as Abdulaziz Al Maqbali created an opening down the left before finding Ahmed Al Riyami, whose curling left-footed effort narrowly missed the target.
East Bengal gradually found their rhythm and began creating chances of their own.
David Lalhlansanga tested Al Seeb goalkeeper Muatasim Al Wahaibi, while defender Anwar Ali attempted a shot from a similar area but failed to keep his effort down under pressure.
The visitors returned from the interval with greater attacking intent and nearly broke the deadlock in the 49th minute.
Edmund Lalrindika used his pace to beat Hassan Al Ajmi and found himself in a promising position inside the penalty area, only to send his shot over the crossbar.
Al Seeb responded through a promising move involving Augustine Oladapo and Axel Meye. Oladapo lifted the ball into the forward’s path, but Meye dragged his attempt wide of the East Bengal goal.
Both teams pushed for a late winner as the contest entered its closing stages.
East Bengal came close when Bipin Singh connected with Mohammed Rashid’s long delivery and directed an effort towards goal, forcing Al Wahaibi into an important save.
At the opposite end, Zahir Al-Aghbari threatened to snatch victory for the hosts, but Lachenpa reacted well to keep out his swerving strike.
Neither side could find the breakthrough, leaving both teams frustrated after 90 minutes.
With the group stage reaching its halfway point, East Bengal faces increasing pressure to collect victories and improve its position in the standings.
The Kolkata-based club will now turn its attention to the reverse fixture against Al Seeb on November 3, when it returns home hoping to secure a crucial three points and revive its campaign.
