Punjab FC vs Mumbai City FC, Durand Cup 2024: Islanders end campaign with another 3-0 loss against PFC

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Punjab FC secured a comfortable 3-0 win over Mumbai City FC in their Group C match of the Durand Cup 2024 at Kishore Bharati Krirangan. Norwegian striker Mushaga Bakenga scored twice, and Filip Mrzljak added a goal in injury time.

With this victory, Punjab FC ended their group stage with seven points, the same as Kerala Blasters, but Kerala advanced as group winners due to a superior goal difference.

Currently, Punjab FC is the best second-placed team in the tournament but must wait for the other match results to confirm their place in the knockout stages.

Punjab FC's head coach, Panagiotis Dilmperis, made two changes to the starting lineup, bringing in Croatian defender Ivan Novoselec for Melroy Assisi and Nitesh Darjee for Khaimingthang Lhungdim at left-back.

Mumbai City started with Harsh Kadam in goal and Christopher Rajkumar as the lone forward, with coach Mohan Suresh Dass setting up his team for their final game of the tournament.

Punjab FC began the match aggressively, putting pressure on the young Mumbai City squad. Harsh Kadam made two early saves, denying Vinit Rai and Filip Mrzljak. Despite dominating possession, Punjab struggled to create clear chances.

Mumbai City defended deep and resiliently, frustrating Punjab's attempts to break through. Punjab's build-up play lacked precision, and their chances were wasted, easing the task for Mumbai's defense in the first half.

Early in the second half, Punjab FC was awarded a penalty after Mumbai defender Arsh Bhagawan handled the ball in the box. However, Luka Majcen missed the penalty, and substitute Mushaga Bakenga also missed a clear opportunity minutes later, adding to Punjab's frustrations.

Punjab finally broke through in the 62nd minute when Filip Mrzljak's cross found Bakenga at the far post, who headed the ball into the net. Despite creating several chances afterward, Punjab FC continued to waste opportunities in front of goal.

In added time, Filip Mrzljak scored with a left-footed shot after being set up by Muhammed Suhail, and Bakenga converted a penalty in the final minute to secure a 3-0 victory for Punjab FC, keeping their hopes of qualifying for the knockouts alive.