Punjab FC emerged victorious in their final Group C match of the 133rd Durand Cup, defeating Mumbai City FC 3-0 at the Kishore Bharati Stadium on Sunday. The win propelled Punjab FC to the top of the group standings, while Mumbai City FC, fielding a young reserve team, finished without a point.
Norwegian forward Mushaga Bakenga was the star of the show for Punjab FC, scoring twice, including a crucial penalty in injury time. Croatian midfielder Filip Mrzljak also found the net for the winning side.
The match began with Punjab FC dominating possession and creating several chances. However, Mumbai City FC's young defenders held firm, preventing the Shers from finding the breakthrough.
As the first half progressed, Mumbai City FC grew into the game and began to threaten Punjab FC's goal. However, the Shers' defense remained resolute, and the teams went into the break with the score still 0-0.
The second half saw Punjab FC continue to press for the opening goal. Their efforts were rewarded in the 62nd minute when Bakenga broke the deadlock with a clinical finish.
Mumbai City FC responded well to the setback and pushed for an equalizer. However, Punjab FC's defense held strong, and the Shers doubled their lead in the 90th minute through Mrzljak.
In the dying moments of the match, Mumbai City FC conceded a penalty, which Bakenga converted to seal the victory for Punjab FC.
The win sees Punjab FC finish their group league engagements tied with Kerala Blasters on seven points. However, Kerala Blasters took the top spot in the final standings for having a superior goal difference. Punjab FC remains the best second-placed team currently in the tournament and will now have to wait for the results of the other matches to confirm its place in the knockouts.
Tags: #DurandCup, #PunjabFC, #MumbaiCityFC, #Football, #Sports
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