Punjab FC delivered a commanding performance to defeat Inter Kashi 3-0 in the Indian Super League 2025–26 clash at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Monday, strengthening their push up the table.
The Shers, now on 14 points from eight matches, consolidated seventh place with a display marked by control, clinical finishing, and defensive discipline. Inter Kashi, meanwhile, stayed eighth with 11 points, struggling to make their chances count.
Punjab began brightly, dictating the tempo early on with Bede Osuji at the heart of their attacking moves. Within the first ten minutes, Osuji’s clever backheel flicks twice set up Dani Ramírez, but Inter Kashi goalkeeper Lluis Tarrés made crucial saves to keep the score level.
Midfield control came through Manglenthang Kipgen, while Effiong Nsungusi Jr and Osuji consistently troubled the visitors’ defence. Inter Kashi had brief moments from set-pieces, with Tomba Singh and Narender Gahlot coming close, but lacked a decisive edge.
The breakthrough arrived in the 37th minute. After winning possession, Pramveer Singh sparked a move that saw Osuji and Nsungusi combine before the latter squared the ball for Samir Zeljković, who calmly slotted home. The midfielder’s performance later earned him Player of the Match honours.
Inter Kashi tried to respond before halftime through Alfred Planas and Sergio Llamas, but Punjab goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh stood firm.
Punjab doubled their advantage shortly after the restart. A midfield error allowed Ramírez to surge forward and set up Nsungusi Jr, who finished from close range in the 51st minute.
From there, Punjab maintained control, pressing high and closing down spaces. Defenders Pramveer Singh and Bijoy V. ensured Inter Kashi found little room to operate, effectively shutting down counter-attacks.
The third goal in the 72nd minute sealed the result. Substitute Leon Augustine’s forward run created space for Osuji, who turned sharply inside the box and fired into the top corner, capping an impressive individual display.
Punjab nearly added a fourth late on, with Vinit Rai striking the woodwork and Ranjeet Singh Pandre denied in a one-on-one situation.
The victory keeps Punjab FC within touching distance of the top half of the table, while Inter Kashi will need to regroup after a match where their inefficiency in front of goal proved costly.
