East Bengal FC delivered a masterclass in resilience and clinical finishing to storm into the final of the AIFF Super Cup, defeating Punjab FC 3-1 in a thrilling semifinal clash at the Fatorda Stadium in Margao on Thursday, December 5, 2025.
Red and Golds Book Third Super Cup Final Berth
This victory propels East Bengal into their third AIFF Super Cup final and marks their second final appearance of the current season, having narrowly lost the IFA Shield to Mohun Bagan SG earlier. The red-and-gold brigade will now face FC Goa in the championship match, promising a blockbuster finale.
The path for FC Goa was forged in dramatic fashion, as they overcame Mumbai City FC 2-1 in the other semifinal despite playing the entire 90 minutes with only 10 men. Their captain, Iker Guarrotxena, was sent off for an incident in the tunnel before kick-off, forcing a last-minute change with Javier Siverio entering the starting lineup. Yet, goals from Brison Fernandes (20') and David Timor (23') sealed their hard-fought passage to the final.
Match Highlights: A Tale of Set-Piece Prowess
The match began cautiously, with Punjab FC creating the first major chance. However, East Bengal soon seized control. Exploiting Punjab's defensive uncertainty in the absence of the suspended Muhammed Uvais, they struck first in the 12th minute from a clever short corner routine.
Miguel Ferreira's delivery was partially cleared, falling to Mohamad Bashim Rashid on the edge of the box. Rashid, with a superb first touch, unleashed a low drive that slipped under goalkeeper Muheet Shabir for his maiden goal for the club.
Punjab responded with vigor and found an equalizer against the run of play in the 34th minute. A defensive error saw Ricky Shabong's header strike Bipin Singh's arm inside the penalty area. Daniel Ramirez stepped up and coolly converted the resulting spot-kick, sending Prabhsukhan Singh Gill the wrong way.
Just when it seemed the teams would go into halftime level, East Bengal struck a crucial blow. In the third minute of added time, Ferreira delivered another pinpoint corner, and Kevin Sibille rose highest to power home a magnificent header. The celebrations were so intense that coach Oscar Bruzon was shown a second yellow card for his exuberance.
Crespo Seals the Deal for Dominant East Bengal
The second half saw East Bengal grow in confidence, controlling proceedings and creating several chances. The decisive third goal arrived in the 71st minute through a moment of individual brilliance. Miguel Ferreira weaved past multiple defenders inside the box before squaring the ball to captain Saul Crespo, who guided a precise left-footed finish into the bottom corner.
Punjab FC, despite efforts from Suhail and Ramirez, struggled to break down East Bengal's organized defensive block for the remainder of the match. The final whistle confirmed a well-deserved 3-1 victory for Oscar Bruzon's men.
This commanding performance sets the stage for an intriguing Super Cup final against an FC Goa side known for its fighting spirit. East Bengal will be eager to convert this final opportunity into silverware and cap off a season of significant progress.
