New Delhi, Sep 20 (PTI) – Punjab FC clinched a thrilling 2-1 victory over Odisha FC on Friday, thanks to goals from Nihal Sudeesh and Leon Augustine, marking their second consecutive win in the current Indian Super League season. This victory extends their unbeaten streak to eight games whenever they have taken the lead first, boasting six wins and two draws during this period.

In the 27th minute, 23-year-old Nihal Sudeesh opened the scoring with a well-timed strike. This early goal set the tone for Punjab FC, who showcased a dominant performance throughout the match. Leon Augustine sealed the win with a late goal, demonstrating the team’s resilience and ability to capitalize on critical moments.

Punjab FC’s attacking prowess was on full display as they orchestrated multiple scoring opportunities. The forward line, featuring Nihal Sudeesh, Filip Mrzljak, Mushaga Bakenga, and Ezequiel Vidal, seamlessly penetrated Odisha FC’s defense. Their coordinated efforts consistently posed a threat to Odisha’s goalkeeper Amrinder Singh, maintaining pressure throughout the game.

Head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis expressed relief and satisfaction as his team took an early lead, a strategy that has proven effective for them this season. The opening goal was a result of a well-executed play initiated by Ezequiel Vidal. Vidal advanced along the left flank and delivered a precise pass to Mrzljak inside the box. Demonstrating remarkable awareness, Mrzljak executed a clever back-heel to Nihal, who skillfully maneuvered past Odisha’s full-back Amey Ranawade and found the net with a shot directed to the far right corner.

The synergy between Nihal, Mrzljak, and Bakenga nearly doubled Punjab FC’s lead in the 47th minute. Nihal’s lateral pass was deftly received by Mrzljak at the center, who then laid it off for Bakenga on the right side. Despite ample space and a composed attempt, Bakenga’s shot did not significantly challenge Amrinder. Nonetheless, Punjab FC continued to test Odisha’s defense, with Tekcham Singh’s long-range effort in the 64th minute keeping Amrinder on his toes.

Leon Augustine delivered the decisive blow in the 89th minute. A piercing through ball from Ricky Shabong sliced through Odisha’s defensive line, finding Leon in an optimal position. The 25-year-old former Bengaluru FC player calmly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner from the center of the box, providing Punjab FC with a crucial two-goal cushion as regulation time dwindled.

However, Odisha FC did not go down without a fight. In the added time of the second half, Amey Ranawade and attacking midfielder Hugo Boumous intensified their efforts to breach Punjab FC’s defense. Boumous managed a brave shot from outside the box, which deflected off goalkeeper Ravi Kumar and resulted in an own goal, adding a tense finish to an otherwise dominant performance by Punjab FC.

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