Punjab FC vs Mohun Bagan, ISL 2024-25: Mariners End Year at Table Top With 1-3 Win Over Shers

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Mohun Bagan Super Giant bounced back to form with a commanding 3-1 victory over Punjab FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. The league leaders overcame an early deficit with an impressive second-half display, featuring a brace from Alberto Rodriguez and a penalty conversion by Jamie Maclaren.

Punjab FC began brightly, with Ricky Shabong opening the scoring in the 12th minute. His stunning solo effort from the left flank caught the Mohun Bagan defense off guard, as the young midfielder slotted the ball past goalkeeper Vishal Kaith. Earlier, Punjab's Nikhil Prabhu had rattled the crossbar with a long-range strike, signaling their intent.

Despite the setback, Mohun Bagan gradually grew into the game, nearly equalizing through Asish Rai's powerful volley, which was well saved by Punjab goalkeeper Ravi Kumar. The home team's all-Indian backline, including the impressive Pramveer Singh, made life difficult for Mohun Bagan's forwards in the first half.

The visitors came out with renewed vigor after the break, and Rodriguez restored parity in the 48th minute. Rising highest to meet Jason Cummings' corner, the Spaniard headed home Mohun Bagan's seventh goal from a set-piece this season.

The game turned decisively in Mohun Bagan's favor three minutes later when Punjab's Ezequiel Vidal was shown a red card for dissent after being booked for a foul on Liston Colaco. Reduced to 10 men, Punjab struggled to contain Mohun Bagan's relentless attacks.

In the 63rd minute, Jamie Maclaren converted a penalty after Anirudh Thapa was fouled in the box, giving the Mariners the lead. Six minutes later, Rodriguez completed his brace, again capitalizing on a corner to seal the victory.

Substitute Sahal Abdul Samad nearly added a fourth, but Ravi Kumar denied him with a fine save. The win solidified Mohun Bagan's position at the top of the table, moving five points clear of second-placed Bengaluru FC.

Alberto Rodriguez stood out with two crucial goals and a solid defensive performance, contributing to the team's comeback win. Mohun Bagan will host Hyderabad FC on January 2, while Punjab FC faces Kerala Blasters on January 5.