The stage was set at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium for an electrifying encounter as Punjab FC hosted Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League 2024-25 season. Both teams arrived with determination, but it was Punjab who left the field with heads held high, triumphing over Chennaiyin with a thrilling 3-2 victory on a memorable Thursday night.
Wilmar Jordan Gil was the first to ignite the stadium, giving Chennaiyin an early lead in the 30th minute with a well-timed goal, setting the tone for what promised to be a fiercely contested match. This goal marked Gil’s fourth in just three games, showcasing his striking prowess and offering a glimmer of hope for the visiting side to extend their unbeaten away record.
The first half was a strategic tussle as both sides vied for control. Laldinliana Renthlei, making his return to Chennaiyin’s line-up after serving a one-game suspension, stood out with his defensive capabilities. His precise timing and blocks were pivotal in maintaining the slim margin as he denied Punjab clear chances at Marking his return, Renthlei was a defensive bulwark, batting away Punjab’s attempts with close-range blocks and positioning. Samik Mitra, Chennaiyin’s goalkeeper, was also crucial, stretching out to parry away a menacing cross that threatened to destabilize their defense. Dinliana’s impeccable positioning further thwarted Punjab’s attempts, keeping the visitors in front as the halftime whistle approached.
Six minutes shy of the halftime mark, Chennaiyin seemed to double their advantage when Farukh Choudhary expertly turned in a set-piece header from Ryan Edwards. The crowd’s elation, however, was short-lived as the referee disallowed the goal due to a perceived foul in the build-up, a decision that left Chennaiyin’s fans and players visibly frustrated.
The second half commenced with explosive energy as Luka Majcen single-handedly altered the game’s landscape for Punjab FC. Striking just a minute post the break, Majcen capitalized on a lapse in Chennaiyin’s focus, leveling the score. In a stunning twist, barely moments later, Majcen struck again in the 48th minute, seizing the lead for Punjab and transforming the atmosphere inside the stadium.
. These back-to-back strikes were a testament to his clinical finishing and turned the game on its head, leaving Chennaiyin scrambling for a response.
Despite being down, Chennaiyin was not without resolve. They intensified their efforts, attempting to breach Punjab’s defense with renewed vigor. However, a swift counter-attack from Punjab saw Asmir Suljic extend the host’s lead further in the 70th minute. This goal was a significant blow to Chennaiyin’s comeback aspirations, as it placed Punjab firmly in command of the match.
Still, Jordan Gil rose again during stoppage time, showcasing his never-give-up attitude. With his second of the match, he brought Chennaiyin back within reach at 3-2 with the very last kick, concluding his personal tally to five goals this season. His relentless pursuit of goal-scoring opportunities exemplified his tenacity and skill as a forward. Despite his efforts, time was ultimately not on Chennaiyin’s side as the final whistle confirmed their return home with no points.
With this defeat, Coach Owen Coyle and his squad will need to regroup quickly, preparing for their next encounter against Jamshedpur FC. The loss marked the end of Chennaiyin’s unbeaten away streak, but it also highlighted areas for improvement as they eye a bounce back in their ISL campaign.
This account of Punjab’s thrilling victory over Chennaiyin, while reflective of the dynamism of the sport, is sourced from external agencies. Mid-day holds no responsibility for its authenticity or reliability. The publication maintains the discretion to alter or remove content for any reason whatsoever, as deemed necessary by its management.
