Kolkata, January 23: The final group-stage clash of Sundarban Bengal Auto FC and Howrah Hooghly Warriors lived up to its billing, ending in a thrilling 2–2 draw at the Canning Stadium, the home turf of Sundarban Bengal Auto FC. This was the 14th and last league fixture for both sides, with semi-final qualification already within sight.
Sundarban Bengal Auto FC started on the front foot and were rewarded early. In the 17th minute, Raghav Gupta broke the deadlock. Rahul unleashed a powerful effort that took a deflection off Sheila Toure and fell to Raghav, who made no mistake.
The home side doubled their advantage in the 39th minute. Once again, Raghav Gupta was involved, this time as the provider. His corner from the right found Sandip Mandi, who sent the ball into the net to make it 2–0, giving Sundarban firm control of the game.
However, Howrah Hooghly Warriors showed urgency before the break. In the 43rd minute, a long ball was brought under control by Deep, who released Suman down the right flank. Suman’s low cross into the box was calmly finished by David, pulling one back and keeping the Warriors very much in the game at 2–1 going into halftime.
The second half saw Howrah Hooghly Warriors increase the pressure in search of an equaliser. Their best chance came in the 80th minute when Paulo Cezar burst into the box from the right and attempt a close-range shot, but Sundarban keeper Arnendu reacted brilliantly, closing the angle and keeping his side in front.
But the Brazilian forward was not to be denied. In the 86th minute, Paulo Cezar produced a moment of sheer quality, unleashing a stunning long-range half-volley, leveling the score at 2–2. It was his 8th goal of the campaign, placing him second in the league’s scoring charts, just one behind Sundarban’s Richmond, who leads with nine goals.
The draw confirmed Howrah Hooghly Warriors’ second-place finish in the group with 27 points, while Sundarban Bengal Auto FC ended the league stage in third place with 24 points. Crucially, both teams booked their places in the semi-finals, setting the stage for an exciting knockout phase ahead, as already JHR Royal City Malda, Murshidaabad already waiting there.
A high-tempo contest, late drama, and two promising league contenders, this encounter delivered everything the Bengal Super League promised.
Bengal Super League 2025-26: Sundarban Bengal Auto FC vs Howrah Hooghly Warriors highlights
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