In a pulsating contest that came alive in the closing stages, Punjab FC beat Odisha FC 3-2. | Photo Credit: Focus Sports

Punjab FC kept its title ambitions alive with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Odisha FC in Indian Super League 2025–26 at the PJN Stadium in Margao on Saturday.

Goals from Manglenthang Kipgen, Bede Osuji, and Dani Ramírez sealed a crucial win for the Shers, while Suhair VP and Kartik Hantal found the net for Odisha FC in a pulsating contest that came alive in the closing stages.

With this victory, Panagiotis Dilmperis side moved up to fourth place with 22 points from 12 matches, level on points with East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant ahead of their upcoming Kolkata Derby tomorrow. Odisha FC, meanwhile, remained 12th with 10 points from 12 matches. Bede Osuji was named the Player of the Match for his influential performance in attack.

While Punjab pushed forward in hopes of an early goal, Odisha’s disciplined shape ensured the teams went into the break level at 0-0.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 69th minute. Substitute Manglenthang Kipgen struck from distance and the ball took an awkward bounce just in front of Anuj Kumar and nestled into the net, handing Punjab a deserved lead.

Odisha responded almost immediately. In the 71st minute, a cross from the right found striker Suhair VP, who slotted in the equaliser.

Punjab’s persistence paid off in the 89th minute. From a well-worked corner, Bede Osuji tapped home from close range and restored the lead.

Four mintues later, the Shers added a decisive third as Dani Ramírez unleashed a powerful left-footed strike into the near post.

T.G. Purushothaman’s side refused to relent and pulled one back deep into added time through substitute Kartik Hantal setting up a tense finale.

However, Punjab held firm in the closing seconds to secure all three points in a thrilling encounter.

Published on May 16, 2026