ISL 2025-26: FC Goa Seek To Extend Unbeaten Run Against Punjab FC

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Punjab FC vs FC Goa: FC Goa face Punjab FC in the Indian Super League 2025-26 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Monday, March 16, 2026. Kick-off is at 19:30 IST. The match will stream on FanCode and air on Sony Sports TEN 2.

Punjab FC vs FC Goa: Recent form and league positions

FC Goa are unbeaten in their first four games. They have two wins and two draws. The Goan side sits fourth with eight points. Punjab FC are eighth with four points from three matches. Punjab is also unbeaten in their last two games this season.

Recent results and tactical focus

In the previous round, FC Goa drew 0-0 with East Bengal FC in Kolkata. Punjab FC drew 1-1 with NorthEast United in New Delhi. Punjab could not find a winner despite long spells of control and more entries into the opponent’s box.

Coaches’ views

FC Goa head coach Manolo Márquez said, "Against East Bengal, the team played with a lot of personality and kept possession for long periods. We would like to continue playing in the same way against Punjab. The atmosphere in the dressing room is very good and that helps the team move in the right direction."

Punjab FC approach

Punjab FC head coach Pangiotis Dilmperis said, "We need faster decision-making and better quality in our final actions. In the last match we delivered the ball into the opponent's box 26 times while they entered ours only twice. We must improve our finishing and decision-making to convert those opportunities into goals."

Mutual respect between sides

Speaking about the opposition, the Greek coach said, "FC Goa are a very good team with a clear plan and strong players. Our target is to continue the defensive performance from the previous games, limit their chances near our box and improve our finishing so we can score goals."

Goa’s view on Punjab

Márquez also praised Punjab. "They are a strong side that plays with intensity and pace and they have started the season well. It will definitely be a challenging match for us," he said. Both coaches want to keep their current style and secure the points.

Punjab FC vs FC Goa: Head-to-head record

FC Goa have never lost to Punjab FC in the ISL. They have three wins and one draw from four meetings. In the last clash in New Delhi, FC Goa edged the hosts by a single goal. Punjab now chase a first league win over Goa.

Player focus and injuries

FC Goa striker Ishan Pandita said, "Every season is important for a player, but this one means even more to me considering everything that has happened in the last two or three years. It's a great opportunity for me to get more minutes on the pitch, grow as a player, keep improving my game and show everyone what I am capable of doing for the team," he said.

Punjab FC vs FC Goa: Team news and defensive plans

FC Goa are likely to miss Muhammed Nemil and Mohammad Yasir due to injury. Punjab FC are expected to be without captain Nikhil Prabhu and forward Muhammad Suhail. Punjab defender Bijoy Varghese said, "I am thankful to the coach for trusting me in the centre-back position. I am learning his style of football, working hard in training and trying to improve every day to help the team perform better."