The Shers made a flying start, taking the lead inside the opening minute. Muhammed Uvais delivered a cross into the box, which Messi Bouli converted with a right-footed finish into the bottom-right corner to give Punjab FC an early advantage. The Juggernauts responded in the 15th minute through a set-piece opportunity. Lalthathanga Khawlhring delivered a cross from a corner, which Thoiba Moirangthem met with a header into the bottom-right corner to bring Odisha FC level at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
Punjab FC began their Indian Super League 2026-27 campaign with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Odisha FC in New Delhi on Wednesday, as Messi Bouli scored a stoppage-time winner in the 90 5th minute after the sides went into half-time level at 1-1.
Odisha FC introduced Éverton Nascimento and Lalrinfela Khiangte in the 64th minute as they looked to take control of the contest. Both sides continued to create chances in the first half. Alfred Planas tested Odisha FC goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari, but the custodian kept the scores level. At the other end, Mahmoud Eid missed an opportunity from inside the box in the 18th minute. The Juggernauts threatened through a series of set-pieces late in the game, with Rahim Ali and Stephen Eze attempting headers around the 80th minute. Mahmoud Eid also tested Punjab FC goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh from outside the box, but the custodian made the save. Punjab FC responded immediately, with Vishal Yadav setting up Messi inside the box.
The forward finished with his left foot to restore the Shers’ lead and seal a dramatic 2-1 win.
