East Bengal Starts Strong While Fatigue Drives Late Goals in ISL

East Bengal has made a flying start to the 2026/27 Indian Super League season by scoring nine goals and conceding just one in their first two matches, including a 5-1 win over Inter Kashi at the Balewadi Stadium.

Late Goals and Fatigue

Out of 18 matches played so far this season, 13 have seen goals scored in the 80th minute or later. Punjab FC has especially benefited from this trend by using fresh substitutes to target tired defenses. Substitute Bishu helped set up a winner in added time against Odisha FC, Konsam Sanathoi Singh helped set up a late equaliser against Mumbai City, and Konsam also scored a late winner against Churchill Brothers.

Team Fitness and Weather

Match fitness and early-season fatigue remain major talking points across the league. Following a goalless draw in hot and humid Kochi between Kerala Blasters and Mumbai City FC, Blasters head coach Ashley Westwood noted that his side ran about 98.8 kilometers and is still building stamina due to a short pre-season. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan Super Giant coach Panagiotis Dilmperis pointed out that playing in multiple tournaments like the Durand Cup, IFA Shield, and Calcutta Football League actually reduced his players' aerobic and anaerobic capacity.

Context

Early-season football tournaments often see lower stamina levels as players transition from training to competitive league fixtures. High temperatures, humidity, and crowded tournament schedules further compound physical fatigue, frequently opening up games in the final minutes.