Kolkata, December 14: Bengal Super League kicked off at a crucial moment for Indian football, with domestic competitions battling uncertainty and long-term development plans still lacking clarity. In this challenging landscape, the Indian Football Association (IFA), in collaboration with Shrachi Sports and Zee, has taken a decisive step to restore optimism. Launched with a clear vision to revive Bengal football and contribute to the wider growth of the Indian game, the Bengal Super League aims to bring the state back into the national mainstream by identifying, nurturing, and developing homegrown footballing talent.
The opening fixture of the league saw JHR Royal City FC, Malda Murshidabad take on Northbengal United FC at the DSA Malda Ground, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Bengal football. Saheed Ramon’s JHR Royal City FC made a confident start to their Bengal Super League campaign with a 3–1 victory over Biswajit Bhattacharya’s Northbengal United FC, showing attacking intent and control for most parts of the match.
JHR Royal City created the first real chance of the game in the 15th minute when Sajan Sahani attempted a long-range effort, but his shot went just wide of the target.
In the same minute, Northbengal United FC got a golden opportunity to take the lead. Devid Motla found himself in a promising position with goalkeeper Sourav Samanta caught out, but despite getting two clear chances, he failed to convert, missing a big opening for his side.
History was made in the 26th minute when Brazilian Joao Vita (Jota) scored the first-ever goal of the Bengal Super League. The JHR Royal City forward finished calmly to put his team 1–0 ahead, sending the home supporters into celebration.
JHR Royal City doubled their lead through Robi Hansda at 31st minute, who showed excellent awareness and pace. Receiving the ball in space, he went on a strong run with no defender marking him and chipped the ball over the advancing goalkeeper, making it 2–0.
JHR Royal City went into the break with control of the game, dictating the tempo and pressing high, while Northbengal United FC left finding rhythm in they game.
Northbengal United pulled one back early in the second half in the 51st minute. Sanju Santra delivered a free kick from the left, and the ball took a deflection off JHR Royal City defender Coulibaly before ending up in the net, reducing the margin to 2–1.
The goal briefly lifted Northbengal United, as time went to the final whistle Northbengal United FC tried to get back into the game with attacking intent, but JHR Royal City remained composed and continued to control possession.
In the dying moments of the match, Rajibul Haldar fouled Irfan inside the penalty box during a goal-bound move. The referee pointed to the spot, and Robi Hansda stepped up to convert the penalty confidently, sealing the match at 3–1.
JHR Royal City FC’s composed performance and clinical finishing earned them the first three points of the Bengal Super League, while Northbengal United FC will look to regroup after missing key chances. As the league begins, this opening match sets a promising tone for the revival and future growth of Bengal football.
Bengal Super League 2025: JHR Royal City FC vs Northbengal United FC highlights
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