Punjab FC finally broke the jinx against Odisha FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) on Friday, registering a hard-fought 2-1 victory at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai. The win propelled Punjab to the top of the table alongside Bengaluru FC, both with six points from two games.
Odisha started the match strongly, but Punjab gradually grew into the game, led by Croatian midfielder Filip Mrzljak. Mrzljak was instrumental in Punjab’s first goal, assisting Nihal Sudheesh in the 28th minute. Sudheesh’s shot found the far post, giving Punjab the lead.
After the break, Punjab continued to press for a second goal. Mrzljak set up Mushaga Bakenga in the 48th minute, but the Norwegian forward sent the ball wide. Abhishek Singh also missed a chance to double Punjab’s lead, despite beating the Odisha defense.
Punjab’s profligacy in front of goal nearly cost them dearly. Asmir Suljic had a golden opportunity to equalize for Odisha in the 78th minute, but he shot straight at goalkeeper Amrinder Singh. Amrinder was in fine form throughout the match, making several crucial saves to keep Odisha in the game.
However, Odisha’s resistance was finally broken in the 89th minute. Ricky Shabong’s assist found Leon Augustine, who slotted the ball into the far post from an acute angle. It looked like Punjab would keep a clean sheet, but Hugo Boumous hit the upright in extra time, with the ball brushing past Ravi Kumar’s head.
Despite the late scare, Punjab held on for the victory, their first-ever against Odisha in the ISL. The win is a significant boost for Punjab, who are aiming to make a strong start to the season.
