Defending champions East Bengal FC opened their MG Indian Super League 2026-27 campaign with an impressive 4-0 victory over Churchill Brothers at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda on Sunday. Dani Ramírez, Edmund Lalrindika and substitute Bipin Singh, who scored twice, found the net to secure all three points for Antonio Habas’ team. The result marked the biggest win of the season so far.

Dani Ramírez Gives East Bengal an Early Lead

East Bengal made an immediate impact, taking the lead in just the second minute. Dani Ramírez produced a superb free-kick from just outside the penalty area, using his left foot to curl the ball into the top-left corner and put the visitors ahead. Churchill Brothers responded by increasing the intensity of their attacks in search of an equaliser. The home side created several opportunities and came close to restoring parity, even hitting the woodwork. However, East Bengal maintained their defensive shape and prevented their opponents from finding a way through.

Edmund Lalrindika Doubles the Advantage

East Bengal extended their lead shortly before half-time with a well-coordinated attacking move. David Hmar collected the ball on the left flank and held possession before delivering a pass to Edmund Lalrindika, who timed his run into the penalty area perfectly. Edmund then finished the move by beating Churchill Brothers goalkeeper Sayad Kadir. The goal gave East Bengal a comfortable 2-0 advantage heading into the break and put them in a strong position to control the match.

Bipin Singh Scores Twice in the Second Half

Both teams created chances during the opening stages of the second half. However, Churchill Brothers struggled to convert their opportunities in the final third, while East Bengal remained organised and composed with a two-goal cushion. East Bengal head coach Antonio Habas introduced Bipin Singh as a substitute in the second half, and the decision proved effective. In the 85th minute, the winger produced an excellent curling finish into the top corner to increase the visitors’ lead to 3-0. Bipin scored again just five minutes later to complete his brace and put the result beyond doubt. PV Vishnu sent a cross from the left, and Bipin finished the delivery to make it 4-0 and complete East Bengal’s emphatic victory.

East Bengal Make a Strong Start to Their Title Defence

The defending champions have sent an early message to their rivals with a convincing performance in their opening match. Their four-goal victory showcased their attacking threat and defensive discipline as they began their campaign with three points. Churchill Brothers, meanwhile, will aim to recover from the defeat. They had started their season positively with a 2-1 win over Mumbai City FC but were unable to maintain that momentum against East Bengal. They will look to return to winning ways when they take on Punjab FC next week.