Sahal Abdul Samad’s solo strike hands Mohun Bagan derby victory in Durand Cup 2026

Mohun Bagan claimed victory over East Bengal FC in the Kolkata derby during their opening match of the Durand Cup 2026. The match was settled by a solitary solo goal from Sahal Abdul Samad.
The fixture served as Mohun Bagan’s first game in the 2026 edition of the Durand Cup and featured the traditional Kolkata rivalry. Both clubs met in a high-profile derby that drew attention as an opening contest for Mohun Bagan in the tournament. The outcome hinged on a single individual effort rather than a multi-goal affair.
Sahal Abdul Samad produced the decisive moment, scoring the only goal that determined the result. The goal has been described in reports as a solo effort, credited entirely to Sahal Abdul Samad. That strike enabled Mohun Bagan to finish the match ahead of East Bengal FC.
The derby result gives Mohun Bagan a win from their first appearance in the Durand Cup 2026. East Bengal FC were left on the wrong side of a narrow result in this traditional rivalry. The match was notable for being settled without additional scoring.
Match coverage emphasized the significance of a single goal deciding a derby of this stature. Reporting focused on Sahal Abdul Samad’s contribution as the match-winner for Mohun Bagan. The nature of the goal—characterized as a solo effort—was highlighted in summaries of the game.
Accounts of the game reaffirm that Mohun Bagan edged past East Bengal FC, with Sahal Abdul Samad’s goal providing the margin. The win stands as Mohun Bagan’s opening result in the Durand Cup 2026. The fixture kept the outcome simple: one goal, one winner.
Mohun Bagan leave the match with a victory in their Durand Cup 2026 debut, while East Bengal FC recorded the derby defeat. Sahal Abdul Samad’s solo goal remains the defining fact of the clash and the difference between the two sides in this encounter.

