East Bengal produced a stunning attacking display to defeat NorthEast United FC 7-2 in the IFA Shield 2026 semifinal at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan on Monday, setting up a blockbuster final against arch-rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
David Lalhlansanga was the standout performer for the Red and Gold Brigade, scoring a brilliant hat-trick as Antonio Lopez Habas’ side recovered from an early setback to register a commanding victory.
Despite conceding inside the opening two minutes, East Bengal responded strongly and eventually overwhelmed the Highlanders with seven goals.
David Lalhlansanga Hat-Trick Powers East Bengal to Final
NorthEast United made a dream start when Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie found the net in the second minute, putting East Bengal under immediate pressure.
However, the early goal failed to disrupt the hosts, who gradually took control of proceedings and turned the contest around.
Lalhlansanga led the comeback with three goals, while Rohit Kumar and Chris Ikonomidis also got their names on the scoresheet.
NorthEast United briefly raised hopes of a comeback when Ajaraie completed his brace after the 80-minute mark.
Those hopes quickly disappeared as East Bengal’s new signings Ake Loba and Lukasz Zwolinski marked their debuts with goals, completing a memorable evening for the Kolkata giants.
The seven-goal performance highlighted East Bengal’s attacking strength ahead of two important fixtures.
East Bengal Set for Mohun Bagan Derby in IFA Shield Final
East Bengal will now meet traditional rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the championship match.
The Mariners secured their final berth after defeating Punjab FC 4-3 in a penalty shootout in the other semifinal.
Following the emphatic victory, East Bengal’s Dani Ramirez praised the team’s performance and underlined their determination to lift the trophy.
“It was a clinical performance from our team. Everyone has got clearly defined roles in the side. We are focused and very ambitious. It’s good to see so many players register their names on the score sheet. We are very serious about winning the IFA Shield. We have another crucial game coming up on October 13 against Iraq’s Al-Shorta SC. It’s important to have a core of 22-23 good players when you play domestic and continental tournaments simultaneously,” Ramirez said.
The victory comes at an important stage for East Bengal, who are preparing to balance domestic commitments with continental competition.
With several players contributing goals and new arrivals making an immediate impact, Habas will have encouraging signs heading into the highly anticipated Kolkata derby.
East Bengal will now aim to carry their impressive semifinal form into the final and secure the IFA Shield title against their biggest rivals.
