Punjab FC Edge Bengaluru in Penalty Shootout to Reach Super Cup Semifinals

by Chandler D'silva November 6, 2025

Punjab FC booked their place in the semifinals of the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 after a dramatic 5-4 win on penalties against Bengaluru FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Fatorda. The intense encounter ended goalless after regulation time, with both teams tied on points, goal difference, and goals scored — forcing a shootout to decide the Group C winner.

It was Punjab FC who held their nerve when it mattered most. Goalkeeper Muheet Shabir became the hero for the Shers, saving Ryan Williams’ penalty, Bengaluru’s third attempt in the shootout, while Nsungusi Effiong, Princeton Rebello, Samir Zeljkovic, Leon Augustine, and Vinit Rai all converted their spot-kicks with confidence to seal Punjab’s first-ever Super Cup semifinal berth.

Head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis made two key changes for Punjab, bringing in Leon Augustine for the injured Muhammad Suhail and starting Nsungusi Effiong up front. The tactical switch worked well, as Punjab looked the more composed side in the first half, dominating possession and creating multiple chances. Effiong came close to opening the scoring after a defensive error, while Leon’s effort was deflected just over the bar.

Bengaluru FC, meanwhile, focused on counter-attacks but struggled to break through Punjab’s disciplined defence. In the second half, Bengaluru came alive, with Sunil Chhetri nearly converting a cross from Ashique Kuruniyan, and Rahul Bheke heading wide from a late corner. However, Punjab’s defensive unit, led by Muheet Shabir, stayed composed to keep a clean sheet and force the decider from the spot.

In the penalty shootout, Punjab showed perfect composure under pressure, scoring all five of their kicks to secure a historic victory. For Bengaluru FC, the defeat was heartbreaking, as a single missed penalty ended their Super Cup journey.

With this result, Punjab FC not only remain unbeaten in the tournament but also make history by advancing to the Super Cup semifinals for the first time. Their resilience, discipline, and composure under pressure once again underlined why they’ve been one of the standout sides of the competition.

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