Kolkata : Punjab FC defeated East Bengal 1-0 in IFA Shield 2026 Group 2 clash at East Bengal Ground, Kolkata.
Red and Yellow brigade backed by huge fans in Stadium started with 2 foreigners -Chris Ikonomidis and Diego Živulić. Punjab FC were in front of them who had the huge confidence after crushing Calcutta Customs 7-0 earlier.
Both teams began the game with East Bengal starting for an early attack, with Chris Ikonomidis pressurizing Punjab defense. Punjab on other hand, relied on the long ball.
Punjab had a good opportunity in the 20th minute. They attacked from the left side of the field against run of play. Messi Bouli, former East Bengal player took shot from inside box, which was saved and Bishnu Sharma shot in follow up, the Ball ended on side net.
East Bengal created a chance in the next minute. They went for the attack in Punjab’s half with Ikonimidis sending in a cross to his left for Rohit Danu on the far post. Danu fought off Lhungdim but his header lobed over the net , and they had to be given medical attention.
In 41st minute, Messi Bouli sent a cross from right to Brazilian Raposo who received the ball with his first touch and shot it from distance leaving East Bengal goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa shell shocked. The first half ended 1-0.
In 2nd half, East Bengal and Punjab attacked each. Ikonimidis and Messi Bouli came near for respective teams multiple times but without success.
In 60th minute Messi passed to Moya near East Bengal goal area but the later shot it over net wasting a golden opportunity.
The game went on but in added time (90+2), Punjab captain Nikhil Prabhu was sent off with Red Card (2nd Yellow) following a foul. Nevertheless, Punjab ended with 1-0 margin, topping Group B.
Punjab will face Mohun Bagan SG on 4th September in Semi Final 1, while East Bengal would take on NorthEast United FC in Semi Final 2 on 5th September. Both games will be played at Kishore Bharati Kriangan, Kolkata with kick off slated at 5:00 PM.
