East Bengal showcased its revitalized form by defeating Punjab FC 3-1 during the latest clash of the Indian Super League (ISL) at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Saturday. With this win, the Red-and-Gold Brigade are now eyeing their playoff aspirations, having remained unbeaten across their last three away matches.
The match began on a high note for East Bengal, as Dimitrios Diamantakos scored the opening goal within the 15th minute, setting the pace for the visitors. The moment came when the Greek forward executed a powerful shot from the left, which surprisingly went through the legs of Punjab goalkeeper Ravi Kumar. This initial strike was followed by Naorem Mahesh Singh scoring just after half-time, and another goal from Lalchungnunga shortly afterward, extending East Bengal's lead.
Punjab FC managed to pull one back with Ezequiel Vidal's strike in the 62nd minute, but it proved to be merely consolation. This defeat leaves Punjab FC struggling near the bottom of the standings, currently sitting at 11th place as they face urgency to win their last three matches.
East Bengal's victory reflects their commitment to stay competitive; they now hold 24 points from 21 games, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Their defensive strategy was evident when they prevented Punjab from exploiting the space left behind by their advancing players, especially when Punjab’s coach Panagiotis Dilmperis made changes at the start of the second half.
Meanwhile, the race for the top of the table is heating up, particularly with FC Goa eager to halt the title ambitions of Mohun Bagan Super Giant. FC Goa will challenge Kerala Blasters FC at home this Saturday and has already secured their place for the playoffs. They remain unbeaten at home against Kerala Blasters FC for the last seven encounters, holding the psychological advantage going forward.
“Tomorrow is going to be dangerous. Kerala Blasters FC has incredible offensive capabilities, and we must prepare our strategies accordingly,” stated FC Goa’s head coach Manolo Marquez, indicating the respect he has for their opponents.
FC Goa stands at second place with 39 points, and the possibility of winning the League Shield, albeit slim, still exists. The Gaurs would need to win all their remaining matches against Kerala, Punjab, Mohammedan SC, and Mohun Bagan Super Giant, along with relying on the latter’s losses to keep the title within reach.
Next Sunday presents another pivotal match for Mohun Bagan Super Giant, who could potentially clinch the title without even taking to the field if FC Goa fails to win against Kerala Blasters on Saturday. Currently, Mohun Bagan sits on top of the table with 49 points from 21 matches, needing just to secure draws or wins to solidify their position.
“We are focused on our upcoming match against Odisha FC; but outcomes of other matches are consistently under consideration,” said Jose Molina, the head coach of Mohun Bagan. Given their impressive record this season, they are firm favorites to claim the title.
This season, as teams make final pushes for playoff positions, the strategies and performances on the pitch will be more closely examined. An eye-catching aspect is the juxtaposition of East Bengal's upward momentum against Punjab's struggles, leaving fans to wonder how the remainder of the season will play out.