Punjab FC head coach Pavlos Dermitzakis has declared that his side will go into every Indian Super League (ISL) 2026/27 match aiming for three points, as the Shers kick off their campaign against Odisha FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday, 12 October 2026. The season opener sets the tone for a Punjab FC side that arrived at the new campaign with one of the most structured pre-seasons in the league.

A Pre-Season Built on Confidence

Punjab FC entered ISL 2026/27 having played eight pre-season friendlies, conceding just once throughout that run — a defensive record that has given Dermitzakis considerable confidence heading into the competitive rounds. The squad of 27 players includes 10 academy graduates, reflecting the club's commitment to homegrown talent development. Participation in the IFA Shield also gave the side meaningful exposure against top clubs before the season began.

'We prepared ourselves very well during the long pre-season we had. We managed to add players in positions where we felt we needed reinforcements, and the games we played in the IFA Shield gave us the chance to face big and strong clubs,' Dermitzakis said.

Coach Spells Out Season Target

The Greek tactician was unambiguous about the ambition for the campaign. 'We are ready for the start of this campaign, and our target is clear. Since we have created a very capable squad, we will try to win every game,' he stated. Dermitzakis also laid out a stylistic identity he wants Punjab FC to build: a combination-based, possession-oriented approach that he believes sets them apart in a league that typically favours direct, transition-heavy football.

'Our philosophy is to try to play good and attractive football. First of all, we should be happy, and the fans should be happy to watch and follow us. We have to maintain balance in all phases of the game,' he said. He added that while the team can adapt and play directly when needed, the broader objective remains winning through a more structured, technical style.

Lhungdim's Leadership Mindset

Midfielder and co-captain Khaiminthang Lhungdim echoed the collective readiness in the Punjab FC camp. 'Nothing will change, whether I am a senior player or not. I will do my job the same way. Everyone is ready to fight, and everyone is hungry to play this season again,' he said. Lhungdim emphasised trust in the coaching plan: 'There is a specific tactic and plan that we have from the coach. We keep following his plan, and it is working well.'

What to Watch Against Odisha FC

The clash with Odisha FC is a significant early-season test. Odisha have been a competitive outfit in recent ISL editions, and a strong outing in New Delhi would give Punjab FC's combination-heavy philosophy an immediate credibility boost. With 10 academy products integrated into the senior setup, the match will also be a measure of how well the club's youth pipeline has matured under Dermitzakis's system. All eyes will be on whether the near-watertight defensive record from pre-season translates to competitive minutes.