Feel blessed to play for East Bengal FC: Cleiton Silva after Kolkata derby win

East Bengal FC striker Cleiton Silva was delighted after a 3-1 win in the Kolkata derby against Mohun Bagan Super Giant at the Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneshwar in the ongoing Kalinga Super Cup. With this win, the Red and Gold Brigade were able to qualify for the semifinals.

Silva has been in fine form for East Bengal FC as he has scored five goals in 10 matches of the Indian Super League. The East Bengal captain also scored against the arch-rivals whereas Nandhakumar Sekar scored a brace for the team.

Silva was awarded Player of the Match for his fine performance on the pitch.

“I feel blessed to have the opportunity to play for this club,” Silva told the club’s media team after the match.

“I want to thank the fans and also the players who make this moment so special. I want to thank the players because the job that we are doing isn’t just about me. I am just the one piece of the engine,” he continued.

The Brazilian added that such victories are special as the team has worked hard to improve their game.

“When you have bad moments you have to learn from it. Last year was a bit of a roller-coaster. This season too, the start wasn’t the way we wanted,” he said.

“But we are pushing and working hard and we know with this results will come,” he added.

On the other hand, Nandhakumar Sekar was delighted to contribute to the team’s success after scoring a brace.

“I am very lucky to score against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the derby. It’s my second goal in this fixture. It’s also my first goal of 2024, so it’s a good beginning and I’m happy,” Nandhakumar told the team’s media team.

“This goal is for East Bengal FC fans. They have come to support us away from home. I have to dedicate this goal to them,” he added.
East Bengal FC will face Jamshedpur FC in the semifinal contest.