The table-toppers of the National Group Stage, Punjab FC delivered a commanding, ruthless performance at the Bambolim Athletic Stadium in Goa this morning, dismantling Kerala Blasters FC 6-0 to secure third place at the Reliance Foundation Development League National Championship 2025-26. From the first whistle, Punjab were in complete control, and by the final whistle, they yet again announced themselves as one of the most dominant sides in this year's competition.

The floodgates opened early as Muhammed Shahil C K tapped home in the fifth minute to set the tone, and just four minutes later, Arshvir Singh announced himself with a stunning long-range effort that crashed into the net, making it 2-0 before Kerala could even settle. To their credit, Kerala Blasters fought back with spirit. Goalkeeper Hitesh produced a world-class diving save to his left in the 18th minute, keeping the scoreline from spiraling further and showing why he had been one of the standout performers of the tournament. But Punjab's quality was simply too much to contain. Arshvir Singh grabbed his second of the morning at the 26-minute mark, a clinical tap-in assisted beautifully by Mohd Sahil, before Yendrembam B. Singh added a fourth in the 34th minute with another composed finish. Punjab went into half-time leading 4-0 and completely in the driver's seat.

The second half told the same story. This time man of the Match Konsam Sanathoi Singh took centre stage for the boys in orange, first converting a penalty in the 57th minute, then completing another brilliant strike in the 65th minute with another tap-in, this time set up by the tireless Bishu Sharma. Punjab's press was relentless, their finishing ice-cold, and their collective performance was a statement. With this mind boggling victory, Punjab secured themselves a podium finish. Though the loss against FC Goa would pinch the “shers” yet they’ll be proud of the competitive spirit, hard work and relentless effort put in by each individual. It’s without a doubt that the “gabrus” will try to roar back in the next season with a much greater and intense zeal to seal the trophy.