ISL 2025-26: Punjab FC aim for back-to-back wins against struggling NorthEast United

Punjab FC will look to secure back-to-back wins in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 as they host Durand Cup champions NorthEast United at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Monday.

Punjab FC, after losing their ISL opener 0-1 to Jamshedpur FC, returned to victory against Bengaluru FC in the previous match, riding on Effiong Nsungusi’s brace to win the match against Bengaluru FC 2-0.

«We have not changed anything in our preparation. We believe in a holistic training method that helps players develop their physical, technical, tactical and mental capabilities,» said Punjab FC head coach Panagiotis Dilperis.

NorthEast United, on the other hand, have yet to win a match in the ISL this season.

Juan Pedro Benali’s side, who won the Durand Cup last year, have had to loan out their most lethal striker, Alaeddine Ajaraie, due to ISL uncertainty and have struggled to find a way to secure full points.

It lost the opener against East Bengal before drawing 1-1 against Bengaluru FC and Mumbai City FC.

ALSO READ: Early goals help Bengaluru FC return to victory against Mohammedan Sporting fdsf2.

The Shers are currently ninth in the table, with three points from two games, while The Highlanders are one spot below, with two points from three games.

Both teams faced each other four times in the ISL with each team winning one match each and the other two matches ending in draws. In their last meeting in January 2025, the match ended in a 1–1 draw, with Alaaeddine Ajaraie and Khaimingthang Lhungdim scoring the goals.

«I’m excited to be back on our home field and I think all the players feel the same. It’s very important for us to start well in our first home game and we will do our best to get the three points,» Lhungdim said.

The match will start at 7:30 PM.

Published on March 8, 2026