Punjab FC Triumphs Over Jamshedpur FC to Secure AIFF U-17 Elite Youth League Title

Punjab FC Claims Victory in U-17 Elite Youth League Final

Guwahati (Assam) [India], May 14: Punjab FC (PFC) showcased an impressive performance, defeating Jamshedpur FC (JFC) 4-1 to win the AIFF U-17 Elite Youth League 2024-25 title at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium.

The team scored four goals in the first half, with contributions from Karish Soram, Ashish Lohar, Vikash Kisku, and Usham Thoungamba Singh within just 11 minutes, as reported by Punjab FC.

Karish Soram initiated the scoring with a well-placed shot in the 28th minute, setting the stage for a commanding first half. Six minutes later, Ashish Lohar extended the lead by taking advantage of a defensive error. Vikash Kisku followed up with a third goal just three minutes after that, finishing expertly from inside the box. Usham Thoungamba Singh capped off the first half with a precise strike in the 39th minute, effectively sealing the match before halftime.

Punjab FC had previously finished second in Group A of the Final Round, securing two wins and one loss to advance to the knockout stage. They kicked off the final round with a resounding 5-0 victory against Sudeva Delhi FC, followed by another dominant 6-0 win over FC Goa. In their final group match, they faced a thrilling 4-5 defeat against AIFF FIFA Talent Academy.

The Cubs continued their strong performance by defeating Bengal Football Academy 6-2, with Sameer netting a hat-trick and Vishal Yadav contributing two goals. Usham Thoungamba Singh added another goal to the tally.

In the semi-finals, Punjab FC triumphed over FC Madras 3-2, coming back from a 1-2 deficit thanks to goals from Ashish Lohar, Vishal Yadav, and Thongram Rishikanta Singh, securing their place in the finals.

Coached by Ramesh Gangaram Bista, Punjab FC qualified for the final round after finishing first in the Zonal Round qualifiers, achieving seven wins, two draws, and only one loss. They scored a remarkable 40 goals while conceding just four throughout the qualifiers, competing against teams like Delhi FC, Sudeva Delhi FC, Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools, Minerva Academy FC, and Sri Dashmesh Martial Sports Academy.