Punjab FC cruise past Inter Kashi

Punjab FC delivered a commanding performance to defeat Inter Kashi 3-0 in their Indian Super League clash on Monday, consolidating seventh place with 14 points from eight matches. Goals from Samir Zeljković (37’), Effiong Nsungusi Jr (51’), and Bede Osuji (72’) sealed the victory, while Zeljković was named Player of the Match.
Punjab began brightly, with Bede Osuji orchestrating attacking moves. Twice in the opening minutes, his clever flicks released Dani Ramírez, but Inter Kashi goalkeeper Lluis Tarrés denied the Spaniard. The hosts dominated possession, with Manglenthang Kipgen controlling midfield and Nsungusi Jr and Osuji troubling the defence. Inter Kashi threatened occasionally through Tomba Singh and Narender Gahlot from set pieces but failed to break through.
The breakthrough came in the 37th minute when Pramveer Singh won possession and initiated a move down the left. Osuji combined with Nsungusi Jr, who squared the ball to Zeljković for a composed finish. Inter Kashi tried to respond before halftime, but Punjab goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh stood firm.
Punjab doubled their lead in the 51st minute after Ramírez capitalised on a midfield error, dribbled past defenders, and set up Nsungusi Jr for a close-range strike. The Shers maintained their intensity, pressing high and restricting Inter Kashi’s opportunities. Defenders Pramveer and Bijoy V. impressed with their discipline, cutting off counter-attacks.
The third goal arrived in the 72nd minute when substitute Leon Augustine surged forward and found Osuji, who turned inside the box and unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner. With a comfortable cushion, Punjab managed the remainder of the game with composure, maintaining their defensive shape and pressing high.
Inter Kashi, who remain eighth with 11 points from nine matches, struggled to match Punjab’s tempo and creativity. The result underlined Punjab’s growing confidence and attacking depth, with Osuji and Nsungusi Jr central to their success.