CFL 2025: Emami East Bengal FC eye a winning start to the Championship Round

CFL 2025 Match Preview – Emami East Bengal FC eye a winning start to the Championship Round: After the completion of the Group Stage matches, the Championship phase of Calcutta Football League 2025 Premier Division will commence with a clash between Group A toppers Emami East Bengal FC and the third-placed Group B team United Kolkata SC at the East Bengal Ground tomorrow afternoon (Kickoff – 3 PM).

Under B Team Head Coach Bino George’s guidance, Emami East Bengal FC topped Group A with 23 points from 11 matches (7 wins, 2 draws and 2 defeats; Goal difference: +20), including consecutive victories in their previous four matches.

Despite suffering some hiccups in the early part of the Group Stage, the Red & Gold Brigade reasserted their dominance in the league, scoring as many as 11 goals in their last 4 Group Stage matches, while conceding just once.

United Kolkata SC, meanwhile, have made a strong statement in their debut season in the Premier Division of the CFL, after winning the First Division last season.

Managed by Yan Law, UKSC started the league in commanding fashion, winning 6 and drawing 2 of their first 8 matches. However, since then, they have managed to win just once, amassing just 5 points from their last 5 Group Stage matches.

UKSC finished third in Group B with 24 points from 12 games (7 wins, 2 defeats and 3 draws), behind United SC (27 points) and Diamond Harbour FC (25 points).

Speaking on the sidelines of his side’s matchday minus one training, Bino George said, “Topping the group has definitely boosted the confidence of our boys, but it will hold little relevance as all six teams will start from scratch in the Championship Round. The points will not be carried forward, so we need to treat each match as a final. UKSC is a very tough opponent. They performed pretty well in the Group Stage and have several experienced players in their ranks. I respect all our opponents, but we’ll leave no stone unturned to start the Championship Round on a winning note.”

The match will be broadcast live on the SSEN app.