Indian youth sides shine in Japan - Punjab FC, Bengaluru FC win; FC Goa lose narrowly
Kurate, July 14
It was a thrilling day of football as India's top developmental squads faced off against their Japanese J-League counterparts, producing a mix of dominant displays and nail-biting finishes. The overall day belonged to Indian teams as the visitors -- Punjab FC, Bengaluru FC -- won two games while FC Goa went down in a close encounter.
In the standout performance of the day, Punjab FC defeated Avispa Fukuoka with a commanding 5-0 victory. The Punjab attack was firing on all cylinders from the opening whistle, with Singamayum Shami netting an early brace (3', 28') to set a ruthless tone. Omang Dodum (42') and Ngarin Shaiza (55') extended the lead before Vishal Yadav put the final exclamation point on the victory deep into stoppage time (90+2').
Bengaluru FC edge out Giravanz Kitakyushu
Bengaluru FC showed incredible resilience to secure a hard-fought 3-2 victory against Giravanz Kitakyushu. After trailing to a 40th-minute strike by Ryunosuke Imai, Bengaluru fought back in the second half. Rakshit Priya Anil found the equalizer in the 61st minute.
Despite an unfortunate own goal keeping the Japanese side heavily in the contest, a 75th-minute strike from Serto Worneilen Kom and a relentless team defensive effort in the dying minutes-despite a 90th-minute goal from Md Arbash-ensured Bengaluru walked away with maximum points.
Narrow heartbreak for FC Goa
In a tightly contested tactical battle, FC Goa fell just short against Sagan Tosu, conceding a lone 6th-minute goal to Zenryu Ono. Despite controlling large patches of possession and creating several close chances in the second half, the Gaurs couldn't breach the disciplined Japanese defense, finishing 1-0.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Bengaluru FC's 3-2 win shows real character – coming from behind, equalizing, and then holding on despite an own goal and a late scare. Serto Kom's 75th-minute strike was crucial. But we need to work on game management; conceding in the 90th minute is a bad habit. Still, proud of the boys!
It's great to see Indian youth teams competing abroad, but FC Goa's narrow 1-0 loss is a reminder of the gap. We dominated possession but couldn't finish – same old story. The Japanese defense was disciplined, but we need our forwards to be more clinical in the box. Let's learn and come back stronger.
Excellent news! Two wins and a close loss – this is the kind of exposure needed for our U-23 sides to develop. Punjab's 5-0 victory is mouth-watering. The future of Indian football looks bright with these lads going to J-League academies. Let's hope this continues to grow the sport in our country. 🔥⚽
So proud of these performances! Bengaluru's grit to come from behind and win was inspiring. One thing though – we must avoid giving away soft goals like that own goal. Against stronger sides, that could cost us. But overall, a brilliant day for Indian football. Modi ji should take notice! 😉
What a turnaround from Punjab FC! 5-0 against a Japanese side – that's not easy. Vishal Yadav's stopp
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.