Punjab FC's Panagiotis Dilmperis reflects on strategy & performance following 2-0 win over Mohammedan SC

The Shers made it back-to-back wins for the first time since matchweek 3.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Punjab FC under the guidance of head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis have broken into the top three of the league standings following a well-earned 2-0 victory over Mohammedan SC on Friday. Courtesy of goals from Luka Majcen and Filip Mrzjlak, Punjab piled on more pressure on Mohammedan SC head coach Andrey Chernyshov.

The Shers head coach spoke glowingly about the team’s performance. He praised his team for quickly settling into the strategic adjustments that helped them register an important victory.

Panagiotis Dilmperis was upset with the first-half performance

The Greek head coach candidly admitted that Punjab’s first-half performance left him wanting more from his players. Before the game, the team were expected to struggle with team chemistry due to forced lineup changes caused by injuries.

Talking about the challenges, Dilmperis stated, “We lost our connections, and it’s not normal to frequently rely on right wingers and right backs for offensive thrust. But these were the options we had.” He lauded the team’s performance and expressed satisfaction with the team’s collective character crucial for securing the win.

He revealed that the importance of patience was spoken at length in the dressing room before the game. He stated, “We knew they would lose freshness in the second half, so we held back in the first and waited for our opportunities.”

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Another second-half domination by Punjab FC

The win against Mohammedan was another example of Punjab’s ability to score in the latter stages of games. Out of the 16 goals they’ve scored this season, Dilmperis’ men have scored 12 goals in the second half. While playfully guarding his “trade secrets,” Dilmperis noted, “Games aren’t won in the first half, but they can be lost there. We just followed our plan to the end.”

He acknowledged the early struggles and the disjointed tempo early in the game but credited his players for sticking to his philosophy. The Greek head coach showed excellent game-management ability and coached his team to another invaluable clean sheet.

Debutants shine for Dilmperis as Punjab build confidence

The match marked ISL debuts for goalkeeper Muheet Shabir and defender Likmabam Rakesh, both of whom impressed, but the coach reserved special praise for Muheet. While talking about Muheet’s performance, Dilmperis stated, “As a former goalkeeper, I understand the patience and readiness required to seize the moment. Muheet played exceptionally well and kept a clean sheet, which is fantastic for his first ISL game.”

The win has helped Punjab FC elevate themselves firmly in playoff contention, with Dilmperis remaining grounded about the club’s ambitions for this season. Looking ahead to upcoming games, the Greek coach stated, “We’re optimistic and confident in our team, but we know our limits. Our target is simple: qualify for the playoffs. Nothing more, nothing less.”

As the Shers hold an advantage with a game in hand and winning momentum, they have established themselves as a formidable contender this season. The Greek head coach and his men will aim to build on their recent success as they strive for consistency. Holding the second-best defensive record and a potent attack, Punjab FC have put themselves in a position to achieve big things this season.

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