Durand Cup 2025 Preview: Punjab FC keen to record another win against ITBP

Punjab FC started their Durand Cup campaign with a hard-fought victory over Karbi Anglong Morning Star.

Punjab FC would be facing the Indo-Tibetan Border Police FT in their second match of the group stage in the Durand Cup 2025, at the SAI stadium, Kokrajhar, on Wednesday (5 August 2025).

The Shers had a dramatic start to their journey in the tournament, as they had to push for a late winner at Kokrajhar against Karbi Anglong Morning Star. Their opening clash made it clear that their road would be challenging as they face tricky sides.

Also Read:  Durand Cup 2025: Full fixtures, teams, groups & telecast details

Stakes:

Punjab FC

Punjab FC would not have expected to start the Durand Cup 2025 campaign the way they did. Against Karbi Anglong, they had to put it everything on the line, with the opposition drawing the first blood in the second half to put them under pressure.

However, the ISL side continued to show their character with their relentless approach. That brought them rewards as they found their opening in the 72nd minute via a header from young Pramveer.

The equaliser helped Punjab mount more pressure as Karbi Anglong finally gave in when they let Sanathoi Singh score the winner. This rocky start to the campaign would keep Punjab FC on their toes as they face an ITBP side coming on the back of a victory in their group stage opener.

Indo-Tibetan Border Police FT

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police FT went past the same opposition in their opening game with a 2-1 score line to make sure they had 3 points in their kitty. ITBP sealed their victory in a similar way as they came back after going down in the first half.

The grit was on display as ITBP FT did not take long to equalise just on the cusp of half-time. Continuing the momentum, they came into the second half with renewed belief and scored the winner to kick off the campaign with a win.

Team News

Both Punjab FC and ITBP FT would not want to miss this opportunity to consolidate their place in the group as they look to make their way to the knockouts. The squads are expected to remain the same with no major changes on the cards.

Head-to-Head Record

Punjab FC and ITBP FT have never clashed before, making this their first meeting. The novelty of this fixture with top spot up for grabs makes this an exciting watch.

Predicted Lineups

Punjab FC

Ravi Kumar (GK), Khaiminthang Lhungdim, Suresh Meitei, Pramveer, Muhammed Uvais, Vinit Rai, Nikhil Prabhu, Ninthoi, Manglenthang Kipgen, Muhammad Suhail, Vishal Yadav.

ITBP FT

Ugesh Lama (GK), Laishram Chingkheinganba, Wanboklang Lyngkhoi, Subhendu Mandi, Donborlang Nongkynrih, Leimajam Sangkar Singh, Lungunhao Sitlhou, Solomon Mangte, Hemraj Bhujel, Srikumar Karjee, Pulung Daimary

Players to watch

Pramveer (Punjab FC)

The young sensation Pramveer stole the limelight with his equalizing header in the opening match of Punjab’s campaign. The header highlighted Pramveer’s ability to dominate others in the box when it comes to set pieces.

The 18-year-old did not just have one moment of magic when he scored the header; rather, he was impressive throughout the match with his solid defensive performance in the backline.

His presence in the defence will boost the defensive capabilities of Punjab going into this crucial clash. The youngster can also prove to be the find of this year’s Durand Cup should he continue to remain impregnable in defence.

Hemraj Bhujel (ITBP FT)

How can we miss out on the player who scored the winner for ITBP FT in their first match against Karbi Anglong Morning Star? Hemraj Bhujel was in the heat of the battle as he produced multiple chances before burying the most important one in the 59th minute when he scored a banger to give ITBP FT the victorious lead that sealed three points for them.

Bhujel was the one making a difference with his creativity. But it was not his creativity that made the difference; his shot scoring came to the rescue, and the same will be expected of him in the next match against a much tougher side.

Telecast Details

The Durand Cup 2025 group D game between Punjab FC and ITBP FT will be played on Monday, 6 August 2025, at the SAI Stadium in Kokrajhar. The match will kick off at 7 PM IST and will be shown live on the Sony Ten Sports network and SonyLIV.

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