Goal Timeline & Key EventsThe match was an end-to-end contest, highlighted by crucial strikes at pivotal moments:

27′ – Goal for Dempo SC : Against the run of play, Dempo delivered the opening shock. Midfielder Mohamed Ali capitalised to find the net, giving the Golden Eagles a valuable lead which they successfully defended until the break.

46′ – Goal for East Bengal FC : East Bengal roared back immediately after the restart. Winger Naorem Mahesh Singh struck straight after the whistle, wiping out Dempo’s lead and levelling the scores almost instantly.

57′ – Goal for East Bengal FC : The comeback was complete just 11 minutes later. Miguel Figueira scored a moment of brilliance, reportedly with a spectacular volley, putting the Kolkata side firmly in the driver’s seat.

89′ – Goal for Dempo SC : Just when East Bengal thought they had secured the win, Laximanrao Rane delivered a crucial late equaliser. Rane cut inside before unleashing a stunning grounded shot, securing a point for the home state team.

90’+ – Red Card (Nestor Dias – Dempo SC): Dempo’s celebrations were briefly cut short when Nestor Dias was sent off in added time after receiving his second yellow card, forcing them to see out the final minutes with ten men.

Match Analysis: The contest was a story of a missed opportunity for the dominant East Bengal side. They enjoyed the majority of possession but were initially frustrated by a compact Dempo defence and their own lack of clinical finishing, a factor that allowed Mohamed Ali to fire the Goan side into the lead.East Bengal’s quality was undeniable after the break. The quick response from Naorem Mahesh Singh was exactly what the team needed, and Miguel Figueira’s sublime strike showcased the firepower of the ISL outfit. With the score at 2-1, East Bengal appeared to have overcome the challenge.However, Dempo SC demonstrated exceptional resilience and fighting spirit. Despite being on the back foot, they never lost belief. Their discipline and counter-attacking threat paid off handsomely through Laximanrao Rane’s stunning effort. Rane was named Man of the Match for his outstanding contribution.

This draw will undoubtedly feel like two points dropped. After working hard to overturn the deficit and take the lead, failing to see out the final minutes will be a source of frustration, especially in a competitive group.For Dempo SC, securing a 2-2 result against one of the tournament favourites on their home soil is a highly positive start. The point and the spirit shown against a superior opponent provide a fantastic morale boost and a solid platform for their remaining group fixtures.