New Delhi, April 20 (NationPress) In a dominant display, Punjab FC outclassed Inter Kashi with a decisive 3-0 victory in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Monday. Goals from Samir Zeljković, Effiong Nsungusi Jr, and Bede Osuji secured the win, pushing Punjab's points tally to 14 from eight matches, solidifying their seventh position. Meanwhile, Inter Kashi remains in eighth place with 11 points from nine matches. Zeljković earned the title of Player of the Match.

Punjab FC began strongly, showcasing their attacking prowess with Bede Osuji playing a pivotal role. In the opening ten minutes, Osuji's clever backheel flicks set up Dani Ramírez twice, but Inter Kashi's goalkeeper Lluis Tarrés was alert and thwarted both attempts.

The team continued to dominate possession, with Manglenthang Kipgen orchestrating the midfield. Effiong Nsungusi Jr. and Osuji consistently troubled Inter Kashi’s defense. Although Punjab controlled the match, Inter Kashi had their moments, with Tomba Singh and Narender Gahlot coming close from set pieces.

The breakthrough came in the 37th minute through a well-executed move. Pramveer Singh intercepted the ball near the halfway line and initiated an attack that involved Osuji and Nsungusi Jr. After a brief struggle, Nsungusi squared the ball to Zeljković, who coolly finished with his right foot, giving Punjab a well-deserved lead.

Inter Kashi sought to level the score before halftime, combining well between Alfred Planas and Sergio Llamas, but Arshdeep Singh remained solid in goal, helping Punjab retain their advantage into the break.

Punjab increased their lead shortly after the second half began, scoring in the 51st minute due to a significant midfield mistake. Dani Ramírez capitalized, driving into the box and assisting Nsungusi Jr., who found the net with a precise finish, making it 2-0.

Maintaining their intensity, Punjab pressed high, limiting Inter Kashi's chances. Defenders Pramveer and Bijoy V. were instrumental in cutting off passing lanes and thwarting any potential counter-attacks.

The third goal arrived in the 72nd minute when substitute Leon Augustine made a notable run from the left, delivering a precise pass to Osuji. Osuji turned sharply in the box and unleashed a powerful right-footed shot into the top corner, leaving Tarrés powerless.

With a comfortable lead, Punjab controlled the game and effectively managed their defensive shape. Inter Kashi struggled to penetrate, often resorting to long balls that Punjab’s defense dealt with efficiently.

Late in the match, Punjab nearly scored a fourth as Vinit Rai hit the woodwork during stoppage time, while Ranjeet Singh Pandre was denied in a one-on-one due to a vital defensive intervention.

As the final whistle blew, Punjab FC celebrated a convincing 3-0 triumph, securing three crucial points to remain in contention for the top half, while Inter Kashi will need to regroup following a challenging outing where they struggled to turn opportunities into goals.