Punjab FC Youth Team Gains Valuable Experience in Japan Tour

Punjab FC's Youth Tour to Japan

Fukuoka, Japan - On July 20, Punjab FC's technical director, Giuseppe Cristaldi, shared insights about the youth team's recent exposure tour in Japan, expressing gratitude towards the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) for facilitating the competition.

Throughout their time in Japan, the Punjab FC youth teams achieved impressive victories against Avispa Fukuoka and Giravanz Kitakyushu, although they faced a setback against FC Baleine Shimonoseki, losing in a penalty shootout during their final match on Sunday.

After the match against Baleine Shimonoseki, Giuseppe described it as the 'most challenging and intriguing game of the tour,' highlighting the experience of competing against a senior-level team. He emphasized the varying levels of intensity and challenges presented in each match.

'It was an intense game. Our players performed admirably, especially in the first two matches against youth teams competing at a high level in Japan,' he noted, referring to Avispa Fukuoka, whose senior squad plays in the J1 league, Japan's top tier.

Giuseppe remarked on the last match, which ended in a draw and was ultimately lost on penalties, stating it was against a senior team competing at the state level. He acknowledged the distinct challenges faced, viewing it as a growth opportunity for the team.

'We concluded with the toughest match, but it was also the most fascinating. It allowed us to gauge our standing as a youth team, particularly when playing against a senior squad in a stadium filled with local supporters,' he added.

Despite the penalty loss, Giuseppe maintained a positive outlook, emphasizing the invaluable experiences gained during their ten days in Japan, which will remain with the players and staff for a lifetime.

'The experiences we shared here in Japan are something that all players and staff will cherish, not just in terms of football but also as life lessons,' he stated.

Giuseppe praised the RFDL, calling it a 'significant asset' for Indian football, as it provides under-21 players with essential competitive exposure between youth and senior levels.

'Reliance's RFDL initiative has been crucial for Indian football, offering youth players the opportunity to bridge the gap between under-18 and senior teams. This competition is vital for all Indian teams involved,' he explained.

He noted that last year, Punjab FC played 23 matches in the RFDL season, a remarkable number for a youth team, and combined with their participation in the Punjab Super League, they exceeded 40 matches. 'For these players, match experience is crucial,' he emphasized.

Giuseppe concluded by thanking RFDL for the exposure tour and expressed pride in qualifying for it by finishing in the top three of the RFDL 2025-26 season.

'This tour provided an incredible opportunity for development, both technically and mentally, in one of Asia's top footballing nations with a rich culture. We are grateful to Reliance for their ongoing support of Indian clubs and football,' he remarked.

The RFDL Japan Exposure Tour wrapped up positively on Sunday, with Bengaluru FC and FC Goa achieving notable victories on the final matchday, while Punjab FC narrowly missed a win after conceding a last-minute equalizer.

Bengaluru FC finished the tour undefeated, drawing with Avispa Fukuoka before winning 4-3 in penalties, showcasing their defensive strength and composure throughout the matches.

FC Goa concluded their campaign with a solid 3-1 win over Giravanz Kitakyushu, with Malsawmtluanga scoring first, followed by an equalizer from Sojiro. Goa responded with goals from Sitroy Carvalho and Shawn Fernandes in the second half.

Punjab FC seemed poised for victory after Singamayum Shami's goal in the 38th minute against Baleine Shimonoseki, but Koyama Hanu's stoppage-time equalizer forced penalties, where Punjab lost 7-6 despite a commendable effort.

The Japan Exposure Tour, organized by the Reliance Foundation as part of the RFDL pathway, offered India's top U-21 clubs invaluable international experience against Japanese teams, challenging them with diverse playing styles and high-intensity competition, providing essential learning opportunities on and off the field.