Durand Cup 2024 Quarter-Final: Mohun Bagan SG vs Punjab FC – Match Report

Date: August 23, 2024
Location: Jamshedpur, India

Final Score: Mohun Bagan SG 3-3 Punjab FC (6-5 on penalties)

Summary: Mohun Bagan SG triumphed in a dramatic Durand Cup quarter-final, defeating Punjab FC 6-5 in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout after the match ended 3-3 in regular time. The Mariners showcased resilience as they came from behind twice during the game and held their nerve in the penalty shootout to advance to the semi-finals.

First Half: Punjab FC started strongly, taking the lead in the 17th minute through a penalty converted by Luka Majcen. Mohun Bagan SG responded just before halftime when Greg Stewart’s shot was deflected into the net by Suhail, leveling the score at 1-1. The first half ended with both teams on equal footing, but it was Mohun Bagan SG who had the better share of possession and attacking intent.

Second Half: The second half was a rollercoaster, with Mohun Bagan SG quickly taking the lead through Manvir Singh in the 48th minute. Punjab FC, however, were not to be outdone, as Phillip equalized with a stunning strike. The match saw another exchange of goals, with both teams fighting tooth and nail to gain the upper hand. Despite relentless attacks, the match ended 3-3, pushing the game into a penalty shootout.

Penalties: The penalty shootout was just as intense as the match itself. Both teams scored on their first four attempts before the tension escalated with misses from Novoselec and Meitei for Punjab FC. Aldred’s decisive penalty for Mohun Bagan SG sealed their place in the semi-finals with a 6-5 victory.

Key Moments:

• 17th Minute: Luka Majcen converts a penalty to give Punjab FC an early lead.
• 45th Minute: Suhail equalizes for Mohun Bagan SG with a deflected goal.
• 48th Minute: Manvir Singh puts Mohun Bagan SG ahead.
• 63rd Minute: Phillip scores a screamer to bring Punjab FC level.
• Penalty Shootout:
  • Vinit Rai (PFC): Scores (0-1)
  • Cummings (MBSG): Misses (0-1)
  • Vidal (PFC): Scores (0-2)
  • Manvir Singh (MBSG): Scores (1-2)
  • Bakenga (PFC): Scores (1-3)
  • Colaco (MBSG): Scores (2-3)
  • Filip (PFC): Scores (2-4)
  • Petratos (MBSG): Scores (3-4)
  • Novoselec (PFC): Misses (3-4)
  • Stewart (MBSG): Scores (4-4)
  • Meitei (PFC): Scores (4-5)
  • Subhasish (MBSG): Scores (5-5)
  • Meitei (PFC): Misses (5-5)
  • Aldred (MBSG): Scores, sealing the win (6-5)

Statistics:

• Possession: Mohun Bagan SG 63% – 37% Punjab FC
• Shots: Mohun Bagan SG 10 (6 on target) – 9 (5 on target) Punjab FC
• Corners: Mohun Bagan SG 6 – 4 Punjab FC
• Yellow Cards: Mohun Bagan SG 2 – 2 Punjab FC

Analysis: Mohun Bagan SG’s victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. Despite being on the back foot at times, they managed to capitalize on their chances and stay composed under pressure, especially during the penalty shootout. Punjab FC, while valiant in their efforts, were undone by their inability to maintain their lead and a couple of crucial missed penalties.

This victory propels Mohun Bagan SG into the semi-finals, where they will face the winner of the quarter-final between Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters. Punjab FC, on the other hand, will reflect on what could have been, as they exit the Durand Cup with heads held high after a commendable performance.