Defending champions
The victory sets up a potential high-stakes final for Mohun Bagan, who now await the winner of the second semifinal clash between East Bengal FC and NorthEast United FC. Despite the pressure of the occasion, Punjab FC remained competitive throughout the encounter, matching the defending champions in both organization and defensive discipline across the full duration of regulation and extra time.
A Tactical Stalemate at the IFA Shield
The match began with Mohun Bagan applying heavy pressure, forcing Punjab FC to remain compact in the opening stages. Lallianzuala Chhangte tested goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh early on, while Lee Erwin saw several attempts thwarted by a quick-reacting Punjab defense. As the half progressed, the momentum shifted slightly, with Punjab FC finding their rhythm. Manglenthang Kipgen and Alfred Moya both created dangerous moments, though the breakthrough remained elusive as both sides headed into the break level.
The second half saw continued tactical maneuvering. Punjab substitute Muhammed Suhail nearly broke the deadlock shortly after the restart, while a glancing header from Moya in the 61st minute narrowly cleared the roof of the net. Mohun Bagan thought they had secured a late winner five minutes from time when Subhasish Bose headed home from a free-kick, but the effort was ruled out by the assistant referee for offside.
Shootout Drama Decides the Semifinal
Extra time failed to produce a goal, despite a notable chance for Punjab’s Suhail Ahmad Bhat, who was denied by a sharp leg save from Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Muheet Shabir. With the score still tied, the match moved to penalties to determine the finalist.
In the shootout, Mohun Bagan’s Vishal Kaith proved instrumental, saving efforts from Ngarin Shaiza and Vishal Yadav. Although Punjab’s Muheet Shabir kept his side in the hunt by denying Dezan Drazic, the defending champions held their nerve. After successful conversions from Alberto Rodriguez and others, Miguel Ferreira stepped up to score the decisive penalty, sealing a 4-3 shootout win and ending Punjab FC’s campaign in the tournament.
