East Bengal Triumphs Over Punjab FC in AIFF Super Cup Semifinal

In a captivating semifinal of the AIFF Super Cup, East Bengal emerged victorious against Punjab FC with a score of 3-1. The match, held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, saw East Bengal's Mohamad Basim Rashid, Kevin Sibille, and Saul Crespo score, while Punjab's Daniel Ramirez netted a penalty. Despite a strong start from Punjab, East Bengal's strategic play and solid defense secured their place in the finals. This match marked a significant achievement for Punjab FC, as it was their first appearance in a Super Cup semifinal. Read on for a detailed breakdown of the match highlights and key moments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 5, 2025, 02:13 IST

Exciting Semifinal Match at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium

Fatorda (Goa) [India], December 4: In a thrilling first semifinal of the AIFF Super Cup, East Bengal defeated Punjab FC with a score of 3-1 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Thursday.

Goals from Mohamad Basim Rashid, Kevin Sibille, and Saul Crespo secured the victory for East Bengal, while Punjab FC's Daniel Ramirez scored from the penalty spot, according to a press release.

Punjab FC's head coach, Panagiotis Dilmperis, opted for a lineup featuring only three foreign players, while East Bengal's Oscar Bruzon fielded five. Dilmperis employed a 3-5-2 formation, with Bijoy Varghese, Suresh Meitei, and Pramveer Singh forming the defensive trio. Wingbacks Leon Augustine and Ricky Shabong supported the midfield trio of Samir Zeljkovic, Vinit Rai, and captain Nikhil Prabhu, while Nsungusi Jnr Effiong led the attack with Daniel Ramirez playing just behind him.

Punjab FC started strong, creating several opportunities in the opening minutes, but Pramveer's header from a free kick went off target, and Ricky Shabong's shot from inside the box sailed over the goal.

East Bengal struck first in the 12th minute when Mohamad Basim Rashid scored with a powerful shot from the edge of the box, capitalizing on a slow defensive response after a corner kick.

Determined to equalize, Punjab FC earned a penalty when Bipin Singh was penalized for handling the ball while attempting to block a cross. Daniel Ramirez successfully converted the penalty, sending goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Gill the wrong way.

However, East Bengal regained the lead just before halftime when Kevin Sibille scored with a header from a corner taken by Miguel Ferreira. Notably, Oscar Bruzon received a red card for dissent towards the referees at the end of the first half.

In the second half, Dilmperis made two attacking substitutions, introducing Muhammad Suhail and Bede Amarachi Osuji, shifting to a 4-2-3-1 formation. The first chance of the half fell to East Bengal, but Bipin Singh's shot was saved, and Ibusuki failed to convert the rebound.

East Bengal extended their lead in the 71st minute when captain Saul Crespo scored after a clever setup from Miguel Ferreira, whose left-footed shot found the bottom corner of the net.

With a two-goal cushion, East Bengal focused on defense, managing the game effectively. Osuji had a late opportunity, but his shot was saved, and Daniel Ramirez's follow-up went over the bar.

Ultimately, East Bengal held on to their two-goal advantage, securing a spot in the finals, while Punjab FC can take pride in reaching their first Super Cup semifinal.