ISL: Messi Bouli strikes late as Punjab FC edge Odisha FC

NEW DELHI: (Oct 15) Punjab FC began their Indian Super League 2026-27 campaign with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Odisha FC here on Wednesday, as Messi Bouli scored a stoppage-time winner in the 90+5th minute after the sides went into half-time level at 1-1.

The Shers made a flying start, taking the lead inside the opening minute. Muhammed Uvais delivered a cross into the box, which Messi Bouli converted with a right-footed finish into the bottom-right corner to give Punjab FC an early advantage.

The Juggernauts responded in the 15th minute through a set-piece opportunity. Lalthathanga Khawlhring delivered a cross from a corner, which Thoiba Moirangthem met with a header into the bottom-right corner to bring Odisha FC level at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.