Despite the absence of goals, the contest was far from uneventful, and both sides created several openings with a cumulative 29 attempts made. | Photo Credit: AIFF Media

East Bengal and Punjab FC played out an engaging yet goalless draw in their Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 encounter at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Monday.

Despite the absence of goals, the contest was far from uneventful, and both sides created several openings with a cumulative 29 attempts made. The result ensures East Bengal remains at the top of the table with 22 points from 11 matches, while Punjab climbs to sixth with 19 points from the same number of matches.

Punjab made a bright start to the contest and nearly found an early breakthrough in the sixth minute when Dani Ramirez’s long-range strike skimmed the near post. The visitors looked composed in possession, with Ramirez pulling the strings in midfield, while Manglenthang Kipgen provided support through intelligent movement.

East Bengal gradually settled into the rhythm of the game, using the width effectively through midfielders Bipin Singh and PV Vishnu. However, Punjab’s defensive unit, marshalled well by Bijoy V and supported by Khaiminthang Lhungdim, remained compact and disciplined to deny clear openings.

AS IT HAPPENED | EAST BENGAL VS PUNJAB FC HIGHLIGHTS

The Red and Gold Brigade came closest to breaking the deadlock in the 30th minute. A precise through ball from Miguel Figueira released Bipin Singh behind the defence, but Punjab keeper Arshdeep Singh reacted sharply, rushing off his line to make a crucial block and keep the scores level.

The tempo increased after the break, with the Shers enjoying a strong spell. Within minutes, Kipgen and Ramirez forced successive saves from Gill, who was called into action repeatedly. 

The most notable moment came in the 53rd minute when Shami Singamayum’s diving header, following a well-weighted cross from Lhungdim, was brilliantly tipped away by the East Bengal custodian.

East Bengal responded with phases of controlled possession, attempting to slow the tempo and build attacks patiently. Its best opportunity arrived in the 75th minute when Figueira unleashed a curling effort from the edge of the box, only to see it strike the far post and bounce away.

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As the match entered its closing stages, both sides pushed cautiously for a winner. Substitute Anton Sojberg nearly capitalised on a quick transition, but Arshdeep was quick off his line once again.

The drama intensified in the 90th minute when East Bengal’s Mohamad Rashid spotted Arshdeep off his line and attempted an audacious effort from near the halfway line. The dipping shot beat the retreating goalkeeper but crashed against the crossbar, denying East Bengal a spectacular late winner.

Published on May 11, 2026