ISL 2025-26: Punjab FC keeps title hopes alive after dramatic win over Odisha FC

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

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

With this win, Panagiotis Dilmperi’s side moved to fourth place with 22 points from 12 matches, level 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 Player of the Match for his influential attacking performances.

While Punjab pushed forward hoping for an early goal, Odisha’s disciplined form saw the teams go into the break 0-0.

The breakthrough finally came in the 69th minute. Substitute Manglenthang Kipgen struck from distance and the ball bounced awkwardly just in front of Anuj Kumar and settled into the net, giving Punjab a deserved lead.

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

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

Four minutes later the Shers added a decisive third when Dani Ramírez unleashed a powerful left-footed strike at the near post.

TG Purushothaman’s side refused to give in and pulled the team back deep into extra time through substitute Kartik Hantal, who set up an exciting finale.

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

Published on May 16, 2026