The Kalinga Super Cup 2024 final delivered a thrilling encounter, etching a dramatic comeback story and ending a 12-year trophy drought for East Bengal FC. Odisha FC, riding high on confidence, faced a determined East Bengal side at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. Let’s relive the key moments of this electrifying match:
Early Odisha Dominance:
Odisha FC started aggressively, controlling possession and creating early chances. Daniel Lalhlimpuia was a constant threat down the left flank, causing problems for the East Bengal defense. In the 22nd minute, their dominance paid off. A pinpoint cross from Nandhakumar found Diego Mauricio unmarked in the box, who headed home emphatically to put Odisha 1-0 up.
East Bengal Fights Back:
Despite the early setback, East Bengal didn’t lose hope. They gradually grew into the game, with Suhair Vadakkeel and Cleiton Silva leading the charge. In the 38th minute, their persistence paid off. A delightful through ball from Wahid Rahim found the feet of Siva Narayanan, who calmly slotted it past the onrushing goalkeeper to equalize.
Second Half & Extra Time Drama:
The second half witnessed a cagey affair, with both teams cautious not to concede. However, the intensity picked up in the final minutes. Odisha regained the lead in the 88th minute through a brilliant free-kick by Javi Hernandez, sending the Odisha fans into a frenzy.
East Bengal, refusing to give up, threw everything they had at Odisha in search of an equalizer. Their efforts were rewarded in the 90+5th minute when a goal-mouth scramble resulted in the ball falling to Suhair Vadakkeel, who smashed it home to level the score at 2-2 and force extra time.
Cleiton Silva Seals the Deal:
Extra time continued the tense battle, with both sides creating half-chances. The turning point arrived in the 111th minute. East Bengal captain, Cleiton Silva, received a cross from the right and unleashed a powerful volley that beat the Odisha goalkeeper, sending the East Bengal fans into raptures. This dramatic late goal proved to be the winner, securing a historic 3-2 victory for East Bengal.
East Bengal’s Moment of Glory:
The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations for the East Bengal players and fans. This victory ended their 12-year wait for a major trophy, marking a significant moment in the club’s history. Captain Cleiton Silva was rightly adjudged the “Hero of the Match” for his inspiring leadership and match-winning goal.
Key Takeaways:
The Kalinga Super Cup 2024 final was a classic display of attacking football, resilience, and dramatic comebacks.
East Bengal’s victory highlights the importance of never giving up, even in the face of adversity.
The tournament provided a platform for young Indian players to showcase their talent on a big stage.
Beyond the scoreline, this final served as a reminder of the passion and unwavering support that Indian football fans possess.
