Punjab FC’s impressive performance on Wednesday night at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi propelled them to a resounding 4-1 victory over East Bengal FC, effectively eliminating the Kolkata giants from the Indian Super League (ISL) playoffs contention. This triumph also secured the sixth and final playoff berth for Chennaiyin FC.
Despite being out of the playoff race themselves, Punjab FC showcased their attacking prowess with their famed attacking trio of Wilmar Jordan Gil, Madih Talal, and Luka Majcen all finding the back of the net. The Staikos Vergetis-coached side outplayed East Bengal FC on the flanks, delivering lethal crosses into the box that were expertly converted by their forwards.
East Bengal FC, who needed a win to keep their playoff hopes alive, could only muster a solitary goal from Sayan Banerjee in the 25th minute. Punjab FC had already taken the lead through Gil’s clinical finish, assisted by Tekcham Singh. Talal restored Punjab FC’s lead before the break, capitalizing on a pass from Manglenthang Kipgen.
In the second half, Gil extended Punjab FC’s advantage with a composed finish, assisted by Talal. East Bengal FC’s desperate search for an equalizer left gaps in their defense, which Punjab FC exploited to their advantage.
The victory not only ended East Bengal FC’s playoff aspirations but also highlighted the attacking capabilities of Punjab FC. Despite their early exit from the playoffs, Punjab FC can take solace in their impressive performance against a strong East Bengal FC side.
