Kalinga Super Cup: Punjab FC Set to Battle Goa for Semifinal Spot
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Synopsis
Punjab FC, fresh off their impressive win against Odisha FC, is set to clash with FC Goa for a semifinal berth in the Kalinga Super Cup. The match promises to be thrilling as both teams aim for victory at the Kalinga Stadium.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab FC seeks to continue their winning momentum.
- FC Goa poses a significant challenge with their recent form.
- Match set for 8 pm at Kalinga Stadium.
- Coaches emphasize the importance of capitalizing on chances.
- Injury updates suggest a near-full squad for Punjab FC.
Bhubaneshwar, April 25 (NationPress) Punjab FC, buoyed by their commanding victory over Odisha FC, will compete against FC Goa for a chance to advance to the semifinals in the second quarterfinal of the Kalinga Super Cup, slated to take place this Saturday at the Kalinga Stadium.
Punjab FC triumphed with a score of 3-0 against Odisha FC, while FC Goa matched that performance, defeating I-League side Gokulam Kerala FC by the same margin to reach the quarterfinals. The match is set to kick off at 8 pm.
The Shers showcased an impressive performance in the Round of 16 against the host team, with goals from Asmir Suljic, Ezequiel Vidal, and Nihal Sudeesh. Iker Guarrotxena netted a hat trick for the Goan team and will pose a significant challenge for Punjab’s defense.
In anticipation of the match, head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis remarked, “We capitalized on our opportunities against Odisha and converted them. Odisha created numerous chances, more than any team has against us this season, and I hope that does not happen again against Goa.”
Regarding his squad and injury updates, Dilmperis noted, “We had several players absent from the first match, including Luka Majcen and Filip Mrzljak. They have trained ahead of the quarterfinals, and we aim to have a complete squad for tomorrow’s match.”
FC Goa has previously defeated Punjab FC twice during the Indian Super League season, winning 2-1 in Goa and 1-0 in New Delhi. Punjab will aim to change that narrative and secure their place in the semifinals.
“We performed well against Goa in both encounters but fell short in achieving favorable results. We intend to maintain our level of play from the first match and secure a victory against them tomorrow,” stated Punjab FC youngster Muhammad Suhail F.
With an Asian ticket at stake, Punjab FC is determined to deliver their best effort and achieve a positive outcome against Manolo Marquez’s side.
