A first-half header from PV Vishnu powered East Bengal FC to a narrow 1-0 victory against a determined Indian Army FT side, securing their place in the semifinals of the IndianOil Durand Cup at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.

Entering Sunday's knockout clash, East Bengal deployed an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation. Phurba Lachenpa featured in goal behind a defensive unit of Jay Gupta, Narender Gahlot, Lalchungnunga, and Boris Singh. Rohit Kumar partnered Mohamad Basim Rashid in midfield, creating a base for Dani Ramirez, Christopher Ikonomidis, and PV Vishnu to support central forward David Lalhlansanga.