Defending champions Mohun Bagan edged past Punjab FC 6-5 on penalties to enter the semi-finals of the Durand Cup after both sides were locked at 3-3 after regulation time in a thrilling quarter-final at the JRD Tata Sports Complex stadium in Jamshedpur on Friday.

Bagan meet Bengaluru FC in the semi-final at the Salt Lake Stadium on August 27.

Bengaluru FC rode Pereyra Diaz’s late strike to beat Kerala Blasters 1-0 at the same venue on Friday.

While Luca Majcen gave Punjab FC the lead in the 17th minute, Suhail Bhat (44th) and Manvir Singh (48th) put the green and maroon brigade ahead.

Punjab FC were 3-2 up by the 71st minute. But Jason Cummings restored parity in the 79th minute.

In the tie-breaker, Cummings missed Bagan’s first spot-kick but Punjab’s
Novoselec was stopped by Mariners keeper Vishal Kaith from converting the fifth kick when they were on the cusp of victory.

It was Greg Stewart who promptly brought Bagan back on level terms.

In the sudden death, Melroy Assisi converted for the Shers and so did Bagan’s Subhasish Bose and Tom Aldred, but goalkeeper Kaith’s second save turned decisive in the end.