Mohun Bagan Super Giant striker Jason Cummings has come under heavy criticism after making an obscene gesture towards East Bengal supporters following his team’s exit from the 2025 Durand Cup. The incident took place at the Yuva Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata after Mohun Bagan’s 1-2 defeat in the heated Kolkata Derby on Sunday.
The controversial moment occurred when Cummings, visibly frustrated, showed the middle finger to rival fans who were chanting “Jai East Bengal” as the Mohun Bagan squad boarded the team bus. The act sparked outrage across social media platforms and drew comparisons with the infamous 2005 incident when then-India head coach Greg Chappell flashed a similar gesture at Eden Gardens after facing criticism for dropping Sourav Ganguly.
East Bengal, meanwhile, celebrated a remarkable victory to secure their spot in the semifinals. Greek striker Dimitrios Diamantakos, brought in as an early substitute after Hamid Ahadad’s injury, proved decisive. He scored from the penalty spot in the 38th minute and added a second goal early in the second half, leaving the Mohun Bagan defence exposed.
Although Anirudh Thapa pulled one back for Mohun Bagan with a spectacular long-range strike in the 68th minute, East Bengal’s defence remained strong to clinch their first Kolkata Derby win in over 18 months. The victory also ended Mohun Bagan’s hopes of chasing a record-extending 18th Durand Cup crown, a title they missed last year as well after losing in the final.
East Bengal will now face Diamond Harbour FC on August 20 at the same venue for a place in the 2025 Durand Cup final.