Panaji: Defending champions Punjab FC and Minerva Academy have set up an all-Punjab final in the Dream Sports Championships-AIFF Junior League. The semifinals were played at the Panchayat ground in Raia on Thursday. Punjab FC defeated Bengaluru 5-2, while Minerva Academy overcame Classic FA from Manipur with a 5-1 scoreline.
Punjab FC vs Bengaluru
Punjab forward Kamlesh Chand struck two quick goals in the 42nd and 45th minutes, giving his team a 2-0 lead at halftime. In the second half, Bengaluru showed better resolve but continued to miss scoring opportunities. Punjab added to their tally with goals from Jasmeet Singh and Ayush Koul. Two goals from Hrishikesh Manavathi provided hope for Bengaluru, but the Punjab defence remained resolute. Substitute K Bikash Singh added another goal for the defending champions to secure an easy win.
Minerva Academy vs Classic FA
In the other semifinal, Classic FA drew first blood through C. Thoihenba Singh and managed to ward off relentless Minerva attacks for most of the first half. However, once L Haokip got Minerva on level terms, there was no looking back. L Mahesh Singh provided the lead. In the second half, M. Azam Khan, L Fanai, and Haokip completed the rout, sealing a 5-1 victory.
The final will be played on Thursday at the Atal Stadium in Bambolim.
