The Impressive TimesKolkata, Feb 6, 2025: Mohun Bagan Super Giant delivered a dominant performance, defeating Punjab FC 3-0 in an Indian Super League (ISL) match at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Wednesday night. With the victory, the Mariners became the first team this season to qualify for the playoffs, amassing 46 points from 20 games with 14 wins and four draws.
The match saw a spectacular second-half brace from Jamie Maclaren and a well-executed finish from Liston Colaco, ensuring all three points for the league leaders. This was Mohun Bagan’s ninth consecutive home win, also marking their 12th clean sheet in the ongoing season.
From the outset, the Mariners showcased their attacking flair, creating numerous chances with Greg Stewart driving much of the action through the middle. In the 10th minute, Stewart had an excellent opportunity to put his side ahead, forcing a save from Punjab FC goalkeeper Ravi Kumar. Despite early pressure, Mohun Bagan struggled to break down Punjab FC’s defense, with the visitors remaining compact and resolute in their defensive efforts.
Despite the Mariners’ dominance, Punjab FC held firm, and it wasn’t until the second half that the match truly came to life. A promising chance for Punjab FC arrived in the 55th minute when Abhishek Meetei passed to Ezequiel Vidal on the left. Vidal found Petros Giakoumakis in space, but the Greek forward’s strike struck the post and went out.
This near-miss for Punjab FC was soon punished by Mohun Bagan, who broke the deadlock just a minute later. In the 56th minute, a precise cross from Dippendu Biswas found Maclaren, who controlled the ball coolly before placing it past Kumar to open the scoring.
The Mariners doubled their lead in the 63rd minute, with Liston Colaco making a powerful run down the left flank. Colaco displayed great composure, finishing from a tight angle with Stewart’s presence near the goal adding pressure on the Punjab FC defense and Ravi Kumar in goal.
Punjab FC coach Dilmperis responded by making a couple of changes in the 72nd minute, introducing Nihal Sudeesh and Muhammad Suhail in a bid to change the game. Despite some promising moments from the visitors, Mohun Bagan’s defense, led by Alberto Rodriguez and Subhasish Bose, remained unyielding.
As the match wore on, Punjab FC struggled to find a way through, and in the 90th minute, Mohun Bagan sealed the victory with Maclaren’s second goal. A heavy touch by Asish Pradhan in a dangerous area allowed Jason Cummings to pounce on the loose ball. Cummings quickly squared it to Maclaren, who calmly finished to complete his brace and put the match beyond reach for Punjab FC.
With the 3-0 victory, Mohun Bagan Super Giant further cemented their position at the top of the ISL standings, keeping their playoff hopes intact. The Mariners will now look ahead to their next encounter against Kerala Blasters FC on February 15. Meanwhile, Punjab FC will aim to bounce back when they face Odisha FC on February 10.
In a performance that highlighted their attacking prowess and defensive solidity, Mohun Bagan Super Giant proved once again why they are the team to beat in ISL 2024-25.
No Comments: