New Delhi: Punjab FC began their Indian Super League 2026-27 campaign in dramatic fashion, defeating Odisha FC 2-1 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday.
Messi Bouli struck inside the opening minute before returning with a stoppage-time winner in the 90+5th minute to seal all three points for the Shers.
Punjab FC got off to a dream start when Muhammed Uvais delivered a cross into the box, allowing Bouli to slot home with his right foot into the bottom-right corner. However, Odisha FC responded in the 15th minute through a set-piece routine. Lalthathanga Khawlhring’s corner found Thoiba Moirangthem, who headed the ball into the bottom-right corner to restore parity.
Both teams looked for a second goal before the break. Neither side could find a breakthrough, and the teams went into the interval level at 1-1. Even after the restart, the contest remained closely fought.
Punjab pushed hard for a winner in the closing stages. Odisha goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari denied substitute Gurkirat Singh in the 85th minute, while Uvais sent a long-range attempt narrowly wide a minute later. Odisha threatened in added time through Suhair VP and Nihal Sudheesh, but the rival goalkeeper stood firm.
Just when a draw appeared likely, Punjab struck decisively. Vishal Yadav picked out Bouli inside the box, and the forward finished with his left foot in the 90+5th minute to complete a remarkable first-minute-to-last-gasp double and hand Punjab FC a winning start to their campaign.