Did Punjab FC Kickstart Their 134th Durand Cup Journey with a Last-Minute Win Against Karbi Anglong?
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Synopsis
In a gripping match at the SAI Stadium, Punjab FC secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC, starting their 134th Durand Cup campaign on a high note. The Shers' dramatic comeback showcased their resilience and determination as they aim for glory in the tournament.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab FC displayed resilience by coming back from a goal down.
- Karbi Anglong showcased strong defensive skills, yet missed critical opportunities.
- The match highlighted the unpredictable nature of the tournament.
- Punjab FC's next match is against ITBP FT.
- This victory sets a positive tone for Punjab FC's campaign.
Kokrajhar (Assam), Aug 3 (NationPress) Punjab FC commenced their journey in the 134th Durand Cup with a thrilling 2-1 triumph over Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC (KAMSFC) at the SAI Stadium on Sunday.
In a fiercely contested Group D encounter, KAMSFC surprised the ISL side by taking the lead with a goal from Joseph Olaleye in the 69th minute. However, Pramveer (73’) and Konsam Sanathoi Singh (90+2’) reversed the fortunes for the Shers in the dying moments of the match, marking a victorious start to their campaign.
The Shers displayed early offensive prowess, creating opportunities for debutant Vishal and Suhail. Karbi's goalkeeper Gojen Hanse made several key saves, including a double stop in the 12th minute and a fingertip denial of Kipgen’s
Karbi nearly gained the upper hand when Joseph Bempah forced an impressive save from Ravi Kumar in the 29th minute. A subsequent corner led to a penalty for Karbi Anglong after a handball, but Lunminlen Haokip squandered the opportunity, firing wide.
Despite dominating possession and crafting several half-chances, Punjab struggled to penetrate Karbi Anglong’s organized defense, led by Harbamon Timung. The first half wrapped up goalless.
The second half saw Punjab control the rhythm, with Lhungdim testing Gojen again from afar, as Ninthoi continued to deliver threatening crosses.
Unexpectedly, Karbi Anglong took the lead as Victor Jackson sent a well-placed ball to Olaleye, who capitalized on Ravi Kumar’s positioning to score from outside the box in the 69th minute.
Punjab responded promptly. Just four minutes later, a corner from substitute Shami found Pramveer, who leaped above the defense to head the equalizer past the keeper and defender into the bottom right corner.
Relentlessly, the Shers pushed for a winner but found it elusive.
In added time, with the match poised for a draw, Uvais delivered a teasing cross from the left, finding Konsam Singh, who volleyed home the decisive goal in the 90+2 minute, clinching all three points for the Shers.
This victory provides Punjab FC with a crucial early advantage in their Group D campaign, while KAMSFC, despite a spirited effort, will lament their missed opportunities and inability to maintain their lead, concluding their 2025 Durand Cup journey without a single win. Punjab FC is set to face ITBP FT in their next Group D matchup on Wednesday.
Point of View
I observe that Punjab FC's performance in their opening match of the 134th Durand Cup exemplifies the unpredictability of football, where tenacity and strategic play can overturn a seemingly certain defeat. KAMSFC's efforts were commendable, yet the inability to convert opportunities into victory highlights the competitive nature of the tournament. This match sets the stage for an exciting season ahead.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the match between Punjab FC and Karbi Anglong?
Punjab FC won the match with a score of 2-1.
What was the date of the match?
The match took place on August 3.
Where was the match played?
The match was played at the SAI Stadium in Kokrajhar, Assam.
Who scored the goals for Punjab FC?
The goals for Punjab FC were scored by Pramveer and Konsam Sanathoi Singh.
What does this win mean for Punjab FC?
This win gives Punjab FC a vital early boost in their Group D campaign.
