Mohammedan SC wrapped up its maiden Indian Super League (ISL) campaign with a spirited 2-2 draw against Punjab FC at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Monday. Despite finishing at the bottom of the table with 13 points from 24 games, the team showed resilience in their final outing. Punjab FC, meanwhile, ended their season with 28 points, securing eight wins and four draws.
The visitors took an early lead in the ninth minute when Asmir Suljic displayed sharp awareness on the left flank. Spotting an opportunity, he delivered a precise squared pass to Ezequiel Vidal, who made no mistake in slotting the ball into the bottom left corner, giving Punjab FC a 1-0 advantage.
Vidal was instrumental again in the 53rd minute, orchestrating Punjab’s second goal with a well-placed through pass towards Luka Majcen at the edge of the box. Mohammedan SC’s Zodingliana Ralte attempted an interception but lost control, allowing Majcen to seize the loose ball and fire it into the bottom right corner, doubling the lead for the visitors.
However, the home side responded immediately, refusing to let Punjab FC dominate. Manvir Singh whipped in a sharp cross from the left, sparking chaos inside the box. After a critical block by Vanlalzuidika Chhakchhuak, Marc Schmerbock capitalized on the rebound, confidently placing the ball into the center of the net to cut the deficit to 2-1.
Sensing an opportunity to salvage their final game of the season, Mohammedan SC continued to press forward. Their persistence paid off in the 66th minute when Franca made a dazzling run past the Punjab FC defense, picking up the ball near the halfway line. As three Punjab defenders closed in on him, he delivered a well-timed pass to Robi Hansda, who smashed his shot into the roof of the net, leveling the score at 2-2.
Punjab FC had a chance to snatch a late winner in the 83rd minute when Khaiminthang Lhungdim sent in a cross for Petros Giakoumakis. However, the striker’s shot lacked precision and was blocked, ensuring that both teams walked away with a point each.
Though Mohammedan SC struggled throughout their debut ISL season, failing to secure a single home victory, their spirited comeback in this match showed the team’s fighting spirit. Punjab FC, on the other hand, will look back on a season of mixed results but with positives to build on for the future.
