East Bengal vs Punjab FC, ISL 2024-25: Torch Bearers Register Amazing 4-2 Comeback Win

Add as a preferred source on Google

East Bengal produced an inspiring second-half comeback to defeat Punjab FC 4-2 in a thrilling encounter at the Salt Lake Stadium. Punjab dominated proceedings in the first half, but their collapse after halftime allowed the Torch Bearers to script a remarkable victory.

The visitors started brightly and opened the scoring in the 21st minute through Asmir Suljic, who expertly finished a cross from Pulga Vidal after East Bengal's defense was caught napping. Vidal himself doubled the lead in the 39th minute with a moment of brilliance.

Cutting in from the right flank and slotting the ball into the net, he made it 0-2. East Bengal were left reeling at halftime, trailing 0-2 after a disjointed performance. However, the hosts came out roaring in the second half with renewed intensity.

The comeback began immediately in the 50th minute as Hijazi Maher netted East Bengal's first goal, breathing life into the home crowd. Just four minutes later, PV Vishnu struck the equalizer, delivering a precise finish to level the game at 2-2.

The game completely turned on its head in the 60th minute when Punjab's Suresh Meitei inadvertently put the ball into his own net, gifting East Bengal a 3-2 lead. Punjab's woes worsened in the 70th minute when Lhungdim received his second yellow card, leaving the visitors with ten men for the final 20 minutes.

With the numerical advantage, East Bengal exploited the gaps with swift counter-attacks. In the 67th minute, David Lalhlansanga capitalized on a perfect cross from the right flank to score East Bengal's fourth goal, sealing their comeback in emphatic fashion.

Punjab, despite being a man down, continued to press but lacked the sharpness to reduce the deficit. East Bengal's defense, shaky in the first half, held firm during the closing stages. After seven minutes of additional time, the referee blew the whistle to confirm a famous 4-2 victory for East Bengal.

This triumph showcased East Bengal's resilience and fighting spirit, while Punjab will rue their missed chances and second-half collapse. For the Torch Bearers, it was an evening to remember as they delivered a second-half masterclass in front of their jubilant home supporters.