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ISL- Indian Super League

Panagiotis Dilmperis reveals what Punjab FC must do to defeat East Bengal in ISL

Published at :December 16, 2024 at 4:47 PM
Modified at :December 16, 2024 at 4:47 PM
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(Courtesy : ISL media)

Anuj T


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The Shers will be looking to notch their seventh victory in the league this season.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Punjab FC head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis and defender Nikhil Prabhu will be looking forward to getting back to business ahead of their match week 13 clash against East Bengal FC. Despite acknowledging the challenges of injuries faced by the Torchbearers, Dilmperis expects to face a motivated opponent at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium.

Ahead of an important away trip, Panagiotis Dilmperis highlighted the team’s growth since entering the ISL last year while speaking at the pre-match press conference. The Greek head coach highlighted the importance of discipline and focus in securing results that will seal their playoff berth this season.  

Panagiotis Dilmperis will be taking a calculated approach

The 50-year-old coach began by expressing sympathy for East Bengal’s injury concerns. However, the Greek manager was quick to shift focus and emphasize the need to perform well against the Torchbearers.

While highlighting the absence of Madih Talal, Panagiotis Dilmperis stated, “I feel sorry for his injury. No one wants to see players sidelined for long periods. We also have issues, including Filip Mrzjlak, who is unavailable. I think it is an equal battle between two teams that have to address injuries and players that might not be able to play. For us, every game is a great opportunity to stay on the top of the league.”

ALSO READ: East Bengal FC vs Punjab FC lineups, team news, prediction and preview

Punjab FC have come a long way

While reflecting on Punjab FC’s transformation since joining the ISL, the Greek head coach credits the work behind the scenes for the team’s steady development. Panagiotis Dilmperis stated, “Since 2020, the club has worked under a disciplined structure, improving facilities, equipment, and staff. This progress is visible, and if we finish in the top six this season, it’ll be a step forward.”  

When asked about what it takes to reach the Super Six, the coach pointed towards the need for consistent results and focus. Talking about the fine margins, Dilmperis stated, “We’ve shown we can compete with the best, but when we lack focus or discipline, we struggle. We have the potential to beat anyone but must ensure we don’t lose to anyone.”  

Nikhil Prabhu is adapting to his new role

Playing in his new holding midfielder role under Dilmperis, defender Nikhil Prabhu has been a standout performer this season. While sharing his perspective on his role in the team, Panagiotis Dilmperis opined, “My work in the position for my team is to break the transitions.

“Whenever my team is attacking, I am more responsible when the transition is happening and I am very happy to get responsibilities from the coach as defensive and attacking also. And that’s my main job, I just have to break the transitions, making a foul or winning the ball, however, I can.”  

As a core member of the starting eleven, Dilmperis will be delighted with how Prabhu has adapted to his new role this season. The 24-year-old has been a vital presence for the team and helped them keep 3 clean sheets in 10 games this season. Panagiotis Dilmperis will be hoping for more of the same against an East Bengal side playing at home in front of their adoring supporters.

With the fixture coming at an important juncture in the season, Panagiotis Dilmperis acknowledged East Bengal’s improvements under their current manager. He praised head coach Oscar Bruzon for bringing stability and structure to his team despite injuries and challenging moments during the season.

With both sides aiming to secure the crucial three points, Punjab FC will look to capitalize on their recent form in what promises to be a thrilling contest.

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