Goa, Dec 3 (NationPress) Punjab FC aims to make history by reaching the Super Cup final for the first time when they face East Bengal FC in the AIFF Super Cup semifinal on Thursday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Fatorda Stadium.

Punjab FC remained unbeaten in the group stage, securing two wins and defeating Bengaluru FC in a decisive final group match that ended 0-0 after regulation time, leading to penalties to determine the group winner.

Both teams concluded the group stage with seven points each, tied on goals scored, necessitating a penalty shootout to decide the group winner.

Punjab FC kicked off the group stage with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Gokulam Kerala FC, powered by goals from Nikhil Prabhu, Princeton Rebello, and an own goal by Gursimrat Singh. They followed this with another 3-0 win against Mohammedan SC, featuring goals from Ninthoinganba Meetei, Samir Zeljkovic, and Manglenthang Kipgen.

On the flip side, East Bengal had a mixed start, drawing 2-2 with Dempo SC before triumphing over Chennaiyin FC with a solid 4-0 scoreline.

In their final group encounter against city rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant, they managed a 0-0 draw, securing their semifinal spot based on goal difference.

Before the match, Punjab FC head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis stated, “We’ve trained rigorously for the semifinals, and our players are in an excellent physical and mental state. The morale in the camp is elevated, though we recognize that East Bengal is an experienced and well-prepared team with quality across all positions.

“They’ve demonstrated their strength throughout this tournament, so we must remain focused, disciplined, and courageous. At this level, minute details can sway the outcome, and we’re ready to seize every opportunity.”

Coach Dilmperis has relied on his young Indian squad during the group stages and will welcome back Muhammad Suhail, who missed the last group match due to injury. Players like Ninthoinganba Meetei and Manglenthang Kipgen have been impressive in attack, aided by the midfield led by Captain Nikhil Prabhu and Princeton Rebello.

The coach previously opted for an all-Indian defense consisting of Suresh Meetei, Bijoy Varghese, Khaimingthang Lhungdim, and Muhammed Uvais, but will be without Uvais, who is serving a suspension due to two yellow cards.

New foreign players like Dani Ramirez, Samir Zeljkovic, and Nsungusi Effiong have made a significant impact during the group stage, while defender Pablo Renan Dos Santos is yet to make his debut. They’ve also added Bede Amarachi Osuji, a Nigerian winger, to enhance their attacking options.

Both sides boast strong bench options with players like Pramveer Singh, Leon Augustine, Singamayum Shami, Ricky Shabong, Vinit Rai, and Sagolsem Bikash Singh available for selection.

East Bengal has strengthened their squad with notable foreign signings alongside Indian players such as Naorem Mahesh Singh, Bipin Singh, Jay Gupta, Anwar Ali, and Edmund Lalrindika.

Players like Miguel Ferreira, Kevin Sibille, and Hiroshi Ibusuki have already contributed goals, with Saul Crespo continuing to anchor their midfield alongside Mohammed Rashid, a Palestinian international. Hamid Ahadad, a Moroccan striker, has also showcased his skills up front, leading the attack for the Red and Gold Brigade.

As both teams head into the semifinal with confidence and having topped their groups, a tightly contested match is anticipated. Punjab FC seeks to maintain their disciplined, unbeaten streak and leverage their youthful energy and team synergy, just one match away from making history.

East Bengal arrives with a strong legacy, offensive strength, and considerable expectations. With a spot in the AIFF Super Cup final on the line, crucial moments and fine margins will likely determine the outcome of this pivotal clash.