Punjab FC, the first Indian team to defeat a Premier League youth side on foreign soil, continued its strong performance at the Premier League Next Gen Cup, beating Aston Villa 2-0 to finish third. Meanwhile, East Bengal and Muthoot Football Academy faced heavy defeats against Crystal Palace and Everton, respectively, highlighting the significant gap between the Indian clubs and their Premier League counterparts.
Punjab FC has strengthened their roster ahead of the 2024-25 season by signing experienced Croatian defender Ivan Novoselec and Norwegian forward Mushaga Bakenga. Novoselec joins from Tajikistan’s FC Istiklol, while Bakenga arrives from Cypriot club Apollon Limassol FC. Both players bring a wealth of experience and proven talent to Punjab FC, aiming to elevate the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
Kerala Blasters, fresh off a record-breaking victory in their Durand Cup opener, prepare to face Punjab FC in their second Group C match. The Blasters aim to continue their dominant form and secure a place in the tournament’s history.
Kerala Blasters, fresh off a record-breaking 8-0 win over Mumbai City, face Punjab FC in their second Durand Cup Group C match. The Blasters aim to continue their dominant form, while Punjab FC seeks to bounce back from their opening victory.
Kerala Blasters, fresh off a record-breaking 8-0 victory, will take on Punjab FC in their second Group C match of the Durand Cup 2024. The match will be a clash of styles as Blasters aim to continue their dominance, while Punjab FC looks to bounce back from their opening win.
East Bengal and Punjab FC were both eliminated from the Next Generation Cup 2024 after suffering heavy defeats to Everton and Tottenham Hotspur respectively. Everton dominated East Bengal with a 6-0 victory, while Tottenham Hotspur secured a 3-0 win against Punjab FC. Both Indian teams will now face Aston Villa and Crystal Palace in their final group stage matches.
Punjab FC has made its first foreign signing for the 2024-25 season, bringing in experienced Croatian midfielder Filip Mrzlijak from HNK Gorcia. Mrzlijak, a graduate of the renowned Dinamo Zagreb Academy, brings a wealth of experience from top-flight clubs in Croatia, Romania, and Russia, and will add leadership and defensive strength to the Punjab FC midfield.
Punjab FC has secured the services of experienced Slovenian forward Luka Majcen for the upcoming Indian Super League season. Majcen, who has been with the club for the past two seasons, will be looking to continue his impressive form and help Punjab FC achieve success in the top tier.
Punjab FC has secured the services of five key players for the upcoming 2024-25 season, including experienced defender Suresh Meitei, goalkeeper Ravi Kumar, and young midfielders Ashis Pradhan, Ricky Shabong, and Manglenthang Kipgen. The club has signed multiple-year contracts with these players, ensuring a strong core for the upcoming season.
