East Bengal began their journey in the Indian Super League (ISL) on a sour note as they went down 0-2 against arch-rivals ATK Mohun Bagan on Friday.
The Red and Golds were a late entrant into the ISL and hence, had less time to prepare for the season as compared to the rest of the teams. Former India striker Shyam Thapa believes that although East Bengal suffered a defeat in their ISL opener, Robbie Fowler's team did a commendable job given the circumstances.
“It is quite normal that East Bengal went down to ATK Mohun Bagan as it was their first match.