A young Mumbai City FC side displayed remarkable fight and resilience in their final Group stage match of the 2024 Durand Cup, despite a 3-0 defeat to Punjab FC in Kolkata. The Islanders made Punjab FC work hard for the win, with all three goals coming after the hour mark in the second half.
Mumbai City’s young squad faced early defensive pressure but held firm, successfully keeping Punjab FC at bay. Donning their black away kit, the Islanders crafted some promising moves, including a set piece that saw captain Mohd Kaif’s header force a scramble from the Punjab FC goalkeeper.
Displaying great character, Mumbai City consistently closed space, frustrating Punjab FC's attempts to break through. The Islanders soaked up the pressure and managed to go into halftime with the score still level at 0-0.
Five minutes into the second half, Mumbai City was given a lifeline when Punjab FC’s captain Luka missed a penalty. The Islanders continued their strong performance, with goalkeeper Harsh Kadam making a brilliant save. However, Bakenga eventually broke the deadlock, heading in to give Punjab FC a 1-0 lead.
Despite the setback, the Islanders dug deep and held off Punjab FC for much of the remainder of the match. But in stoppage time, Filip doubled Punjab FC's advantage, and Bakenga sealed the result with a penalty, handing Mumbai City a 3-0 defeat in their final 2024 Durand Cup fixture.
