Punjab FC Advances to AIFF Super Cup Semi-Finals After Thrilling Penalty Shootout
Punjab FC Secures Semi-Final Spot
On Wednesday, Punjab FC clinched a spot in the semi-finals of the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 by defeating Bengaluru FC 5-4 in a penalty shootout, following a goalless draw during regulation time at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Goa.
Both teams ended the match with seven points, each recording two victories and one draw. Due to their identical points, goal difference of six, and six goals scored, the group winner was determined through penalties, as stated in a press release from the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
Bengaluru's Ryan Williams was the only player to miss his penalty, leading to their elimination. Suresh Singh Wangjam, Rahul Bheke, Sunil Chhetri, and Braian Sanchez successfully converted their kicks for Bengaluru, while Punjab scored all five penalties through Nsungsi Effiong, Princeton Rebello, Samir Zeljkovic, Leon Augustine, and Vinit Rai.
Goalless First Half Filled with Tension
The match began with both teams showing determination, yet neither could find the final touch in the early stages. Punjab had a few chances, with Effiong failing to control the ball effectively after breaking through Bengaluru's defense. As the match progressed, Punjab began to dominate possession in Bengaluru's half.
Ninthoinganba Meetei, known as Ninthoi, was particularly active on the left wing. His run in the 28th minute led to Punjab's first shot on goal, but Daniel Ramirez's effort from outside the box was easily saved by Bengaluru's goalkeeper, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.
Bengaluru responded by creating their own opportunities, nearly scoring in the 35th minute when Sanchez's cross forced Punjab's goalkeeper Muheet Shabir into a crucial save. Following a corner, defender Chinglensana Singh Konsham missed a header, sending it over the bar. In injury time, Ninthoi's low cross set up a chance for Leon Augustine, but he also shot over.
Missed Opportunities in the Second Half
The second half saw Punjab maintain their intensity, although most of their chances came from set pieces. A corner in the 58th minute found Effiong unmarked, but his header went wide.
Bengaluru's head coach, Gerard Zaragoza, made strategic substitutions, bringing on Sunil Chhetri and Ashique Kuruniyan, which shifted the game's momentum. The Blues began to control possession, aiming to secure a place in the semi-finals. In the 68th minute, Ashique's cross found Chhetri unmarked, but he missed the target.
In the final minutes, Bengaluru earned several corners, and it was only in injury time that they came close again. A corner from Vinith Venkatesh found Rahul Bheke, but his header went wide, leading to penalties.
Shabir's Heroics in the Penalty Shootout
Punjab FC's goalkeeper, Shabir, emerged as the hero during the shootout, particularly with his save against Williams. The Australian forward delayed his shot to gauge Shabir's movement but was thwarted as Shabir anticipated correctly and saved the kick.
With all other penalties converted, Punjab triumphed 5-4, securing their place in the semi-finals.