ITBP FT and Punjab FC Battle to a Stalemate in Durand Cup Clash

Match Overview

Kokrajhar (Assam) witnessed a tense encounter on August 6, as ITBP FT and Punjab FC played to a goalless draw in their Group D match of the 134th Indian Oil Durand Cup at the SAI Stadium.

Despite having several opportunities, Punjab FC struggled to find the back of the net, while ITBP displayed strong defensive skills to earn a valuable point. Both teams now sit with four points after two matches and are set to face Bodoland FC in their upcoming group stage games, as per the Durand Cup announcement.

Team Changes and First Half Highlights

Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis made three adjustments to the starting lineup, introducing Ricky Shabong, Leon Augustine, and new recruit Bijoy Varghese, replacing Ninthoinganba Meetei, Vinit Rai, and Pramveer Singh. In contrast, ITBP's Head Coach Surojit Kumar Prodhani retained the same eleven from their previous match.

Punjab FC began the match with two promising chances, including a blocked attempt from Shabong outside the box. Shortly after, Vishal Yadav missed a low cross from Muhammed Suhail. Both players were dynamic in the first half, frequently challenging the defense with their pace and skill. Vishal switched to the left wing mid-half and came close to scoring twice with left-footed shots from distance, but neither troubled the goalkeeper.

Second Half Developments

Leon Augustine had a chance to score with a header from a looping cross, but it lacked the power to challenge Ugesh Lama in goal. Punjab FC displayed fluid football, yet their final third decision-making was lacking, resulting in numerous long-range attempts as the first half ended scoreless.

At halftime, Dilmperis brought on Princeton Rebello and Konsam Sanathoi Singh to add vigor to the game. Rebello quickly became involved, delivering threatening crosses but failed to convert a one-on-one opportunity after receiving a pass from Manglenthang Kipgen. ITBP's defense, along with a solid performance from goalkeeper Ugesh Lama, kept Punjab at bay.

Final Attempts and Conclusion

Midway through the second half, Punjab narrowly avoided disaster when goalkeeper Ravi Kumar was pressured by Seiminthang Haokip, but the ball deflected out for a corner. Pradipta Biswas then failed to direct his header down from the corner, repeating the miss moments later.

Despite relentless efforts from Punjab to secure a goal, a mix of poor decision-making and strong defending, coupled with excellent goalkeeping, thwarted their attempts. In injury time, Punjab continued to press for a goal, but ITBP's organized defense held firm. Bijoy Varghese's header from a corner went wide, marking the end of a match where Punjab came close but could not capitalize on their chances.