David Hmar: David Lalonsanga Hmar caught the eye in East Bengal FC’s 2-3 loss against Al Shorta SC in AFC Champions League 2. The Indian striker scored both goals for the Red-Yellows on Tuesday in Kolkata. Although his individual skills were not enough to win the team, David has shown his importance in East Bengal’s attack this season. Earlier, he scored a hat-trick against North East United in the semi-final of the IFA Shield. But who is this David Hummer? How did a young footballer from Mizoram make his mark in Indian football?
Football started from Mizoram
David Lalonsanga Hamar was born in Mizoram. The striker, who has been associated with football since his childhood, formed the foundation of becoming a footballer in Aizawl FC’s youth academy. From there he slowly progressed to professional football. David caught the eye for his talent and goal-scoring ability. Later he got an opportunity to play for the senior team of Aizawl FC.
Debut in professional football for Aizawl FC
David made his professional football debut for Aizawl FC in the I-League in the 2020-21 season. At that time he played 26 matches for the team in India’s highest level league and scored five goals. This performance indicated his potential as a young striker. However, David later took up new challenges to showcase his skills on a bigger stage.
A flood of goals in Mahamedan Sporting
David joined Mahamedan Sporting two years after leaving Aizawl FC. He found his best rhythm in black and white jersey. The striker played an important role in the team’s success by scoring 23 goals in one season in Kolkata Football League. His goal-scoring prowess makes Mahamedan’s attack even stronger. David’s performances led to him being regarded as one of the most exciting young strikers in Indian football.
Durand Cup Golden Boot win
2023 Durand Cup also known David Hamer. He scored six goals in just three matches and won the Golden Boot of the tournament. Scoring so many goals in so few matches shows his finishing prowess. David showed how dangerous he can be in front of goal not only in league football but also in major tournaments. This performance is one of the most significant achievements of his career.
Important role in Mahamedan’s I-League win
David’s list of achievements for Mahamedan Sporting also includes winning the I-League. He played an important role in the success of the team. Winning the I-League earned Mahamedan Sporting promotion to the highest tier of Indian football, the ISL. This achievement was historic for the club in the structure of Indian football. And on that journey, David’s scoring ability became one of the team’s greatest assets.
Joining East Bengal, waiting for an opportunity in the first XI
David joined East Bengal on a three-year deal in 2024. However, he did not get a chance in the regular first eleven in the red-yellow jersey. As a result, the opportunity to show his talent consistently was also limited. But since coach Antonio López Habas took over this season, David has seen more freedom in his game. He is scoring goal after goal by exploiting that freedom in attack. David has already scored 10 goals for East Bengal in all competitions, three of which have come in continental competitions.
A brace against Al Ahly, all eyes on David now
David’s brace in the AFC Champions League 2 match against Al Adha will further boost his confidence. Although East Bengal eventually lost 2-3, the performance highlighted his importance in the team’s attack. From a hat-trick against Northeast United in the semi-final of the IFA Shield to a brace on the continental stage—David has been consistently proving his mettle. Now let’s see if the striker from Mizoram can keep this rhythm and bring success to East Bengal in the upcoming matches.