Punjab FC delivered a commanding performance to defeat Mumbai City FC 3-0 at the Mumbai Football Arena on Tuesday, snapping the Islanders’ nine-match home unbeaten streak in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season.
Goals from Ezequiel Vidal, Luka Majcen, and Mushaga Bakenga sealed a comprehensive win for the visitors, who outclassed the defending champions in every department.
The breakthrough came in first-half stoppage time when Luka Majcen and Ezequiel Vidal combined brilliantly. Majcen, orchestrating the attack, delivered a perfectly weighted pass to Vidal, who surged towards the Mumbai box.
Vidal unleashed a stunning left-footed strike from outside the penalty area, curling the ball past a static Mumbai defense into the top-left corner. The goal gave Punjab FC a crucial advantage going into the break.
The visitors capitalized on their momentum early in the second half. Filip Mrzljak’s clever maneuvering inside the box drew a foul from the Mumbai defense, earning Punjab FC a penalty in the 53rd minute. Luka Majcen confidently converted from the spot, sending goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa the wrong way and doubling his team’s lead.
Despite making tactical changes in the 60th minute by bringing on Brandon Fernandes and PN Noufal, Mumbai City FC struggled to break through Punjab’s resolute defense. Punjab not only neutralized the Islanders’ attacking threats but also continued to launch dangerous counter-attacks.
Punjab’s dominance was further cemented in the 84th minute when Mushaga Bakenga added the third goal. Ninthoinganba Meetei delivered a precise pass to Bakenga, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom-left corner, leaving Mumbai’s defense in disarray and sealing a well-deserved victory.
The win showed Punjab FC’s discipline and sharp execution under head coach Staikos Vergetis. Their solid defense and clinical finishing left no room for Mumbai City FC, coached by Petr Kratky, to find a foothold in the game.
Punjab FC’s triumph not only ended Mumbai City’s formidable home streak but also summed up their credentials as strong contenders in the league. For the Islanders, the defeat highlighted weaknesses in their defensive setup and inability to adapt to Punjab’s high-pressure tactics.
As the season progresses, both teams will look to regroup, with Punjab aiming to build on this impressive performance and Mumbai eager to bounce back from the setback.
