Punjab FC will look to build momentum in the Indian Super League, ISL 2025-26 when they host NorthEast United FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Monday, March 9.
The encounter marks Punjab’s first home match of the season and presents an opportunity for the Shers to secure consecutive victories after an encouraging result in their previous outing. The match will be streamed live on FanCode and telecast on Sony Sports Network.
Punjab FC head into the fixture buoyed by a 2-0 win over Bengaluru FC, a result that gave them their first victory of the campaign. Meanwhile, NorthEast United FC are still searching for their first win of the season but showed resilience in their last match by holding Mumbai City FC to a 1-1 draw away from home.
Punjab seek home advantage
Currently ninth in the standings with three points from two matches, Punjab FC will hope that returning to home turf provides them with an additional boost. Head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis emphasised that the team’s preparation remains consistent regardless of the opponent.
“We haven’t changed anything,” Dilmperis said ahead of the match. “We believe in a holistic training method that helps players develop their physical, technical, tactical and mental capacities.”
The Greek coach added that the team also tailors its preparation to each opponent to simulate match conditions during training.
“At the same time we focus on certain things related to the opponents. This helps prepare the players for real game situations, improves decision-making and strengthens their mental preparation,” he explained. Punjab’s victory over Bengaluru FC demonstrated their attacking potential and defensive organisation, two aspects Dilmperis will expect his players to replicate against NorthEast United.
For NorthEast United, the start to the season has been complicated by a demanding schedule. The clash in Delhi will be their fourth consecutive away match, placing additional strain on the squad in terms of travel and recovery.
Head coach Juan Pedro Benali acknowledged the challenge but insisted his team remains focused on securing a positive result. “It has been a tough start for us with so much travelling,” Benali said. “It reduces recovery and training time, but we cannot complain. We have to focus on getting the best result possible.”
Despite their winless start, NorthEast United have already shown glimpses of their competitive spirit. The draw against Mumbai City highlighted their defensive resilience and ability to compete with stronger opponents.
Benali also expressed confidence in the commitment of his players. “The players are ready to give everything for the club. Everyone, including the staff and management, is working hard to make the fans proud,” he said.
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Historically, encounters between Punjab FC and NorthEast United have been closely contested. The two sides have met four times in the ISL, with each team registering one victory while the remaining two matches ended in draws. Their most recent meeting in January 2025 also finished 1-1, with goals from Alaaeddine Ajaraie and Khaimingthang Lhungdim.
Given the evenly balanced head-to-head record, Monday’s clash could hinge on small tactical details and individual moments of brilliance.
Both managers have spoken highly of the opposition ahead of the fixture. Benali described Punjab FC as one of the most energetic teams in the league. “Punjab are one of the most intense teams in the league right now. They are disciplined, tactically strong and full of fighting spirit. It will not be an easy game for either side,” he said.
Dilmperis echoed similar sentiments about NorthEast United’s playing style. “The first thing we must address is their passion and intensity,” he said. “They have many attacking patterns, especially with a hardworking midfield. They are a very active and aggressive team with young players who are hungry to prove themselves.”
Players ready for the challenge
Punjab FC defender Khaimingthang Lhungdim highlighted the importance of starting strongly at home. “I’m excited to be back at our home ground and I think all the players feel the same way,” he said. “It’s very important for us to start well in our first home match and we’ll try our best to get the three points.”
On the other side, NorthEast United midfielder Danny Laishram reflected on his recent opportunity to start for the club. “When the coach told me I would start, it was a very proud moment for me and my family,” Laishram said. “I was nervous, but my teammates gave me confidence and told me to just play my game.”
He added that the support from the coaching staff and senior players has helped him grow. “The coach and the senior players have given me a lot of confidence. I just want to keep improving and give my best for the team,” he said.
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With both teams still shaping their campaigns, Monday’s match could play a significant role in determining their early momentum. Punjab FC will aim to capitalise on their recent win and home advantage to climb up the table. NorthEast United, meanwhile, will be determined to break their winless run despite the difficulties posed by their demanding travel schedule.
As the Shers look to extend their winning momentum and the Highlanders search for their first victory, the clash in New Delhi promises to be an intriguing contest between two evenly matched sides.
