East Bengal suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat against Iraq’s Al Shorta in their AFC Champions League Two 2026-27 Group D encounter at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Tuesday, October 13. Despite David Lalhlansanga’s impressive brace, the hosts surrendered their advantage after conceding twice within three minutes of the second half.

The result left Antonio Lopez Habas’ side with just one point from their opening two group-stage matches, having previously drawn 2-2 against Jordanian outfit Al-Hussein.

David Lalhlansanga shines as East Bengal take control

East Bengal made an encouraging start, with Lalhlansanga opening the scoring in the eighth minute. The forward controlled Hardik Bhatt’s delivery from the right before turning and finishing confidently past Al Shorta goalkeeper Jalal Hassan.

The visitors responded in the 14th minute when Ahmed Yahya converted Ruben Ramirez’s delivery with a header to restore parity.

However, East Bengal regained the lead five minutes before half-time. Following a save from Dani Ramirez’s free-kick, Mohammed Rashid produced a backheel to set up Lalhlansanga, who finished from close range to make it 2-1.

The hosts entered the interval in a promising position but failed to maintain their momentum after the restart.

Al Shorta stage a stunning comeback

Al Shorta came out with renewed attacking intent and equalised in the 51st minute through Hussein Al Saedi, who finished from close range after Yahya’s delivery across the goal.

Just two minutes later, Kingsley Kuku completed the turnaround by heading home from a corner, putting the Iraqi side 3-2 ahead.

East Bengal attempted to respond, but Hassan made important saves to deny Edmund Lalrindika and Lalhlansanga as the home side searched for another equaliser.

Al Shorta’s task became harder in the 76th minute when Abdoul Moumouni received his second yellow card, leaving the visitors with 10 players. However, East Bengal could not capitalise on their numerical advantage during the closing stages.

The defeat will be particularly frustrating for Habas’ side, who had twice taken the lead and created opportunities to extend their advantage.

East Bengal must now regroup quickly as they continue their continental campaign, while Al Shorta strengthened their position in Group D with a second consecutive victory.