East Bengal FC dominated Punjab FC with a commanding 3-1 victory at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi during the Indian Super League 2024-25 season on Saturday evening.

Early Lead Sets the Tone

Right from the start, East Bengal FC played aggressively. In the 15th minute, Dimitrios Diamantakos found the net with a strike from the left. The ball slipped through goalkeeper Ravi Kumar’s legs, giving East Bengal FC an early lead. Notably, this was their first goal within the opening 15 minutes this season. Diamantakos also ended his nine-game goal drought, having last scored in December against Jamshedpur FC.

Punjab FC Struggles Before Halftime

As the first half progressed, East Bengal FC continued pressing forward. In the 44th minute, Raphael Messi Bouli delivered a low cross, but before Diamantakos could take a shot, Ivan Novoselec intervened to clear the ball. Punjab FC struggled to create clear chances and entered halftime trailing.

Tactical Changes and Quick Goals

At halftime, Punjab FC’s coach Panagiotis Dilmperis made two attacking substitutions, introducing Luka Majcen and Nihal Sudeesh in an attempt to turn the tide. However, East Bengal FC remained relentless. In the 47th minute, Messi Bouli shrugged off his marker and crossed to Vishnu. His initial shot was blocked, but Mahesh capitalized on the rebound and calmly placed the ball into the net, doubling the lead. Just seven minutes later, in the 54th minute, East Bengal FC struck again. Mahesh sent in a corner, which Ravi Kumar initially punched away. However, Punjab FC failed to clear their lines, and in the resulting scramble, Lalchungnunga fired a powerful shot into the bottom corner, securing a comfortable lead.

Punjab FC’s Late Response

Punjab FC attempted to fight back. In the 61st minute, Khaiminthang Lhungdim delivered a long pass to Majcen, who directed a header toward the goal. However, Prabhsukhan Gill reacted swiftly and made a crucial save. A minute later, Punjab FC finally broke through when Vidal reacted first to a bouncing cross and unleashed a stunning volley into the top corner, leaving East Bengal FC’s defense helpless.

Final Push Falls Short

Despite their late efforts, Punjab FC ran out of time to mount a comeback. They suffered their 11th defeat of the season, while East Bengal FC extended their unbeaten away streak to three matches. Both teams now have 24 points from 21 matches, with Punjab FC dropping to 11th place. They trail sixth-placed Mumbai City FC by eight points, with three games remaining.

Key Performer of the Match

Raphael Messi Bouli (East Bengal FC) played a crucial role in all three goals. He created three key chances, delivered five crosses, and completed 19 of 28 passes, proving instrumental in East Bengal FC’s victory.

Upcoming Fixtures

Punjab FC will host FC Goa on February 27. East Bengal FC will return home to face Hyderabad FC on February 26.