Punjab FC secured a 3-0 victory against Zinc Football Academy to successfully defend their AIFF Elite Youth League 2025-26 title at the Ramsar Sahib Sports Stadium in Paddi Sura Singh, Garhshankar, on April 29.
The Cubs scored three goals within ten minutes early in the second half. Karish Soram opened the scoring in the 69th minute, followed by a goal from Vishal Yadav in the 70th minute. Thongram Rishikanta Singh sealed the win with a strike in the 79th minute.
Punjab FC dominated possession in the first half, keeping play mostly in Zinc Academy’s half. Vishal and Sameer tested Zinc FA goalkeeper Smarnik Thapa early on, but he made several saves to keep the match goalless. Thapa produced an excellent diving save in the 30th minute to deny Satnam Singh’s header from a corner. Zinc FA countered with set-piece opportunities, but their efforts were directed straight at Viswajeet, ensuring a 0-0 scoreline at half-time.
Zinc FA remained resilient in defence, but the deadlock was broken in the 69th minute after captain Vishal Yadav was fouled just outside the penalty box. Karish Soram converted a left-footed curler into the top left corner, leaving the goalkeeper no chance.
Within a minute, Punjab FC doubled their lead. A misplaced pass from a slipping Zinc defender allowed Vishal Yadav to intercept the ball high up the pitch, calmly beating the advancing goalkeeper to make it 2-0.
Punjab FC maintained attacking momentum and scored their third goal in the 79th minute. Moirangthem Sayonba Singh provided a perfectly weighted assist for Rishikanta, who dribbled past his marker and finished with a left-footed shot.
Punjab FC controlled the remainder of the game to defend their title successfully in front of their home supporters.