East Bengal Triumphs Over Punjab FC in AIFF Super Cup Semifinal

Match Overview

In a thrilling semifinal of the AIFF Super Cup held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, East Bengal emerged victorious against Punjab FC with a score of 3-1. The goals for East Bengal were scored by Mohamad Basim Rashid, Kevin Sibille, and Saul Crespo, while Punjab FC's Daniel Ramirez netted a penalty.

Team Strategies

Punjab FC's head coach, Panagiotis Dilmperis, opted for a strategy that relied heavily on Indian players, fielding only three foreign players. In contrast, East Bengal's coach, Oscar Bruzon, started with five foreign players. Dilmperis employed a 3-5-2 formation, featuring Bijoy Varghese, Suresh Meitei, and Pramveer Singh in defense, while Leon Augustine and Ricky Shabong played as wingbacks. The midfield was manned by Samir Zeljkovic, Vinit Rai, and captain Nikhil Prabhu, with Nsungusi Jnr Effiong as the striker and Daniel Ramirez in a playmaker role.

Exciting First Half

The match kicked off with Punjab FC creating early chances, but Pramveer's header from a free kick went off target, and Ricky Shabong's shot from inside the box was over the bar. East Bengal took the lead in the 12th minute when Mohamad Basim Rashid scored with a powerful shot from the edge of the box after a corner kick was cleared. Punjab FC responded well, earning a penalty when Bipin Singh was fouled while attempting to block a cross. Daniel Ramirez successfully converted the penalty, leveling the score. However, East Bengal regained the lead just before halftime when Kevin Sibille scored from a corner, and their coach received a red card for dissent.

Second Half Developments

At the start of the second half, Dilmperis made two substitutions, introducing Muhammad Suhail and Bede Amarachi Osuji, and shifted to a 4-2-3-1 formation. The first opportunity of the half fell to East Bengal, but Bipin Singh's shot was saved. Suhail nearly equalized with a curling shot that missed the target. In the 71st minute, East Bengal extended their lead with a goal from captain Saul Crespo, who scored after a setup from Miguel Ferreira. Despite a few late chances for Punjab FC, including a shot from Ramirez that went over the bar, East Bengal held on to their lead, securing a spot in the finals.

Conclusion

East Bengal's victory not only secured their place in the finals but also marked a proud moment for Punjab FC, who made their first-ever appearance in the Super Cup semifinals.