Punjab FC aim for historic Super Cup final spot against East Bengal

Goa: Punjab FC will look to script history by advancing to the Super Cup final for the first time when they take on East Bengal FC in the semifinal of the AIFF Super Cup on Thursday here at the Jawaharlal Nehru Fatorda Stadium.

Punjab FC were unbeaten in the group stages with two wins and prevailed over Bengaluru FC in a crucial winner-takes-all final group stage match, where the group winners were decided on penalty kicks after both teams ended 0-0 after regulation time.

Both teams finished with seven points and were tied on goals scored, which eventually led to the group winners being decided on penalties.

Punjab FC started the group stage with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Gokulam Kerala FC with the help of goals from Nikhil Prabhu, Princeton Rebello and an own goal from Gursimrat Singh, and they followed up with another 3-0 victory over Mohammedan SC with the help of goals from Ninthoinganba Meetei, Samir Zeljkovic and Manglenthang Kipgen.

On the other hand, East Bengal were held to a 2-2 draw in the tournament opener by Dempo SC but came back to beat Chennaiyin FC 4-0.

In the final group match against Kolkata rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant, they held them to a 0-0 draw, which ensured they qualified for the semifinals on goal difference.

Speaking ahead of the match, Punjab FC head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis said, “We’ve prepared thoroughly for the semifinals and the players are in a good place, both physically and mentally. The confidence in the camp is high, but we also know that East Bengal are a very experienced and well-drilled side with quality in every department.

“They have proven their strength in this tournament, so we will need to be fully focused, disciplined and brave in our approach. At this stage, small details make the difference, and we are ready to compete for every moment.”

The Head Coach, who has trusted his young Indian core throughout the group stages, will be boosted by the return of Muhammad Suhail after he missed the final group match against Bengaluru FC due to injury. The likes of Ninthoinganba Meetei and Manglenthang Kipgen have shone in attack, along with the midfield marshalled by Captain Nikhil Prabhu and Princeton Rebello. IANS

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