East Bengal FC announced their arrival in the Indian Super League 2026-27 season in emphatic fashion, securing a commanding 4-0 victory over Churchill Brothers SC Goa at the Fatorda Stadium on Sunday (October 18).

Dani Ramírez and Edmund Lalrindika scored in the first half before substitute Bipin Singh struck twice late in the game to hand the defending champions their first three points.

The result also marked the biggest victory of the ISL season so far, as Antonio López Habas’ side converted their attacking opportunities to make a strong statement at the start of their title defence.

Churchill Brothers vs East Bengal – As It Happened

East Bengal needed just two minutes to break the deadlock. Ramírez produced a superb left-footed free-kick from just outside the penalty area, curling the ball into the top-left corner and leaving Churchill Brothers goalkeeper Sayad Kadir with little chance.

Churchill responded positively after conceding and created a couple of promising opportunities to restore parity. The hosts increased the pressure and came close to scoring, even hitting the woodwork, but their inability to convert those chances proved costly. East Bengal maintained their defensive shape and preserved their slender advantage.

The visitors doubled their lead towards the end of the first half through a well-constructed move. David Hmar controlled the ball on the left before picking out Edmund Lalrindika, whose timely run into the penalty area was rewarded with a composed finish past Kadir.

East Bengal went into the break with a 2-0 advantage, despite Churchill showing enough attacking intent to suggest they could get back into the contest.

The home side continued to search for a breakthrough after the restart, while East Bengal remained disciplined and looked to exploit spaces on the counter. PV Vishnu had an opportunity to extend the visitors’ lead but missed a sitter in the second half, allowing Churchill a reprieve as they attempted to find a way back into the match.

However, East Bengal’s quality in the closing stages eventually made the difference. Habas introduced Bipin Singh from the bench, and the winger made an immediate impact in the final minutes.

In the 85th minute, Bipin curled a superb effort into the top corner to make it 3-0, effectively ending Churchill’s hopes of a comeback. Five minutes later, he completed his brace by converting a cross from PV Vishnu on the left, putting the finishing touches on a comprehensive victory.

The win gives East Bengal an ideal start to their title defence, while Churchill Brothers will be disappointed after failing to capitalise on their chances when the score was still 1-0.

The Aftermath

East Bengal have gone 2nd in the ISL table with 3 points after their first match. They will be playing Inter Kashi in their next ISL match on Friday (October 23). Churchill Brothers also have 3 points after two matches, and their next ISL affair is at home against Punjab FC on Sunday (October 25).