Defending champions East Bengal will look to continue their winning start to the MG Indian Super League 2026-27 when they face Inter Kashi FC at the Balewadi Stadium in Pune on Friday.
The fixture revisits last season’s title-deciding clash, when East Bengal beat Inter Kashi 2-1 with Mohammed Rashid scoring the decisive goal to secure the club’s maiden title and fourth top-flight national league title.
A victory on Friday will help the glamour club claim the top spot after the completion of the second round.
The red and gold brigade enter the contest after a commanding 4-0 win over Churchill Brothers, while Inter Kashi drew 1-1 against Odisha FC.
The champions face a demanding schedule, with Friday’s match preceding an AFC Champions League Two fixture against Al Seeb in Oman.
Head coach Antonio Lopez Habas confirmed that he would make limited changes while stressing the importance of both matches.
“We will make a few changes, but not many. We have plenty of players ready to take their chance. Teams that want to win trophies must be prepared for a demanding schedule, and I hope we don’t suffer injuries that force us to change our plans,” Habas said.
Winger Bipin Singh will head into the contest with added confidence after coming off the bench to score twice against Churchill Brothers.
The attacker said the goals were important as he looks to earn a starting place, but emphasised that every opportunity must count. He added “whether you are in the second half or starting eleven, it is important to contribute.”
Inter Kashi head coach Carlos Vaz Pinto acknowledged the challenges of limited preparation and a small squad but remained confident in his approach.