Punjab FC pulled off a remarkable comeback to defeat Bengaluru FC 3-2 in the Indian Super League 2024-25. The exciting match took place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. With this much-needed victory, Punjab FC ended their seven-game winless streak and remained in ninth place with 23 points.

First Half

From the start, Bengaluru FC looked dangerous. In the 23rd minute, Alberto Noguera delivered a well-placed corner to Sunil Chhetri at the far post. Chhetri’s header was on target, but a crucial block kept the score level.

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A few minutes later, in the 36th minute, Noguera attempted another set-piece from the left. This time, he passed the ball to Rahul Bheke, who had positioned himself centrally. However, Bheke’s powerful shot went over the crossbar, wasting a great opportunity.

Meanwhile, Punjab FC had a golden chance in the 40th minute. Ricky Shabong set up Muhammad Suhail inside the right side of the box. Suhail reacted quickly but failed to keep his shot on target, sending it wide of the left post.

Just before halftime, Bengaluru FC launched another attack. Roshan Singh spotted space on the left wing and curled in a cross for Edgar Mendez. Unfortunately for Bengaluru FC, Mendez’s header missed the right post, keeping the scoreline at 0-0 as both teams headed into the break.

Second Half

As the second half began, Bengaluru FC wasted no time in taking the lead. In the 49th minute, Sunil Chhetri initiated an attack from the left flank. Although Punjab FC’s defense attempted to clear the ball, it deflected off Mendez’s boot and found the back of the net. As a result, Bengaluru FC went ahead 1-0.

However, Punjab FC responded quickly. In the 55th minute, Petros Giakoumakis won a penalty after being fouled inside the box. Asmir Suljic stepped up and confidently struck the ball into the top center of the net, leveling the score at 1-1.

From then on, Punjab FC pushed forward aggressively. In the 79th minute, they took the lead once again. Their strategy of stretching Bengaluru FC’s defense wide created space in the middle. Khaiminthang Lhungdim delivered a cross from the right, which Luka Majcen headed toward goal. Although goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu made an initial save, Filip Mrzljak reacted quickly, smashing the rebound into the top right corner. Punjab FC now led 2-1.

Injury Time Drama

Just when it seemed Punjab FC would hold on, Bengaluru FC found a way back. In injury time, Mendez sent in a cross from a corner, and Bheke made no mistake. He powerfully directed the ball into the center of the net, making it 2-2.

Nevertheless, Punjab FC refused to give up. Deep into added time, they executed a perfect counterattack. Nihal Sudheesh played a brilliant through ball to Majcen, who controlled it with his right foot inside the box. Without hesitation, he drilled a low shot into the bottom left corner, sealing a dramatic 3-2 victory for Punjab FC.

Key Performances and Upcoming Matches

Suljic delivered an outstanding performance. He completed 16 of 19 passes, provided two crosses, created goal-scoring chances, and converted his penalty with precision.

Looking ahead, Bengaluru FC will face Jamshedpur FC on February 9, while Punjab FC will take on Mohun Bagan Super Giant on February 5.