Messi Bouli brace gives Punjab FC 2-1 win over Odisha FC in New Delhi
Punjab FC defeated Odisha FC 2-1 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi in the Indian Super League second matchweek fixture on 14th October 2026. Raphaël Messi Bouli scored inside 39 seconds and again in the dying moments, the first goal coming from a cross by Uvais and the winner set up by substitute Bishu Sharma.
The early strike by Messi Bouli — recorded as the fifth fastest goal in ISL history — arrived less than a minute after kick-off and followed his move to the national capital from Jamshedpur FC. Punjab’s result was their first win of the season and their first match at home. Uvais combined well with Moya and Suhail on the left flank and provided the assist for the opening goal.
Odisha levelled through Thoiba Singh, who headed in Puitea’s corner to make it 1-1; Arshdeep and the Punjab defence were beaten by that set-piece delivery. Odisha managed only one shot on target in the first half and were credited in the report as having just two shots across the match.
Arshdeep was booked inside four minutes and later made several saves, denying Planas early on and stopping attempts from Raposo at 58′, Bouli at 74′ and Gurkirat at 86′, while the report states he had no chance on either goal. His early caution was noted as a factor that limited how aggressively he could defend for the remainder of the game.
Individual ratings and substitutions featured across reports: Raphaël Messi Bouli was given 9/10 for his two goals; Laishram Rishikanta Meitei was rated 6.5/10, was subbed off in the 68th minute and recorded five crucial defensive contributions; Ricky John Shabong received 7/10 after a near-miss from outside the box. Suhail registered two shots on target in the first half and played a key part in the opening goal before being replaced by Inam in the 73rd minute.
Late changes influenced the closing phases: Singh came on in the 84th minute and produced a shot on target while Bishu, introduced from the bench, supplied the match-winning assist. The report also noted Bijoy’s defensive error in failing to track Eid’s onside run and that Bijoy’s own header from the centre of the box went narrowly wide.
Punjab FC began their Indian Super League 2026-27 campaign with this 2-1 victory on 14th October 2026, securing their first win of the season in their first home match.
