ISL 2024-25: Optimistic Punjab FC Challenges Newcomers Mohammedan SC
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New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) Punjab FC, buoyed by their remarkable away triumph over Mumbai City, is gearing up to face the Indian Super League newcomers, Mohammedan SC, in their next match tomorrow at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
The Shers currently sit sixth in the standings with 15 points, equal to Odisha FC and NorthEast above them but having played two matches less. Mohammedan, on the other hand, has struggled in their initial foray into the top division, positioned 12th with only five points from nine matches.
Before the match, Punjab FC Head Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis emphasized, “We must remain disciplined and focused against Mohammedan, despite their current standings. This will be a challenging encounter, and we must exert ourselves to secure all three points.” When questioned about the crucial factors that will influence the match outcome, he stated, “Discipline is undoubtedly vital, along with how we commence the opening minutes and the transitional play from both teams.”
Punjab recently achieved a commanding 3-0 victory against the Islanders in Mumbai, while Mohammedan faced a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Jamshedpur FC.
Players Luka Majcen and Ezequiel Vidal have been exceptional in attack, with the Slovenian striker netting four goals in five matches. Punjab's defense has been solid throughout the season, delivering impressive performances. They have recorded the fewest touches allowed in their box and have conceded the least number of attempts on their goal.
PFC midfielder Ricky John Shabong remarked during the pre-match press conference, “Mohammedan is a formidable team boasting a talented roster. Competing against a Kolkata side is always a tough challenge, and tomorrow will be no different. If we adhere to our strategy and maintain our focus, we can secure all three points.” He added, “The coach has entrusted me with responsibilities, granting me playing time to inject energy into the field. I’m pleased with my current form and aim to contribute even more to our team.”
Although this will be the first encounter between both teams in the ISL, they have faced each other six times in the I-League over three seasons. Punjab has had the upper hand, winning three times and drawing three. They have found the net 13 times compared to Mohammedan's six goals in those matches. In their latest face-off, The Shers triumphed 4-0 in January 2023 in Kolkata.
Punjab FC aims to maintain their momentum and solidify their position in the top six of the table, while Mohammedan SC seeks to draw inspiration from their opponent’s performance in a similar scenario last season to rejuvenate their campaign.
