“Still Don’t Know Why”: Punjab FC Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis Fumes Over Controversial Decisions

A frustrating night unfolded in the national capital for Punjab FC after sharing points with FC Goa in a dramatic 1-1 draw at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Monday evening. Panagiotis Dilmperis managed hosts dominated the first half, overshadowing the visitors in every aspect of the game. Despite taking the lead in the first half courtesy of Nsungusi Effiong's goal. However, in the turn of events, the Nigerian was handed a contentious red card by the match referee, Crystal John, propelling the Shers to continue the last 45 minutes with a man down.

Apparently, the sending off proved to be a turning point in the match, as the momentum of the game shifted in favour of Manolo Marquez's FC Goa.

Eventually, the Gaurs found the equaliser and went on to pile up more pressure on the hosts. Nonetheless, Punjab showed resilience in denying the away side a second goal. The game concluded in a stalemate, with Goa luckily managing to extend their unbeaten run in the 2025-26 Indian Super League. Following the result, Punjab sits in eighth place with five points in hand, while Goa is in fourth spot with nine points in their bag.

In the post-match conference, speaking to journalists, Punjab FC head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis did not hold back from voicing his frustration with the controversial decisions from the match officials.

Punjab boss Dilmperis also highlighted the fact that his side played better and how the red card took the game away from them.