Minerva Punjab pulled off a dramatic 3-2 victory over Odisha FC in the Indian Super League on May 16, 2026, at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. The visitors came from behind twice to snatch all three points with a stoppage-time winner, damaging Odisha's playoff hopes in a thrilling contest.

Match Report

Odisha started with intensity and took the lead in the 12th minute through star striker Diego Maurício, who slotted home after a neat pass from Nandhakumar Sekar. Minerva equalised just before the half-hour mark when winger Ashley Phillips latched onto a through ball and fired past goalkeeper Amrinder Singh. Odisha regained the lead early in the second half via a powerful header from centre-back Osama Hadadi from a corner, but Minerva responded again in the 70th minute through substitute Luka Majcen, who turned in a cross from close range.

Key Moments

With the score 2-2 and time running out, both sides pushed for a winner. Odisha thought they had done enough, but in the 93rd minute, Minerva launched a counter-attack. Phillips carried the ball forward and slipped it to midfielder Amarjit Singh Kiyam, who unleashed a fierce drive from 18 yards that flew into the bottom corner, sparking wild celebrations among the traveling supporters. Odisha claimed a foul in the build-up, but the referee allowed the goal to stand.

Standings Impact

The defeat leaves Odisha FC in 6th place with 31 points from 20 matches, now four points behind the playoff places with only two games remaining. For Minerva Punjab, the win lifts them to 7th but they remain seven points off the top six, effectively ending their own slim postseason ambitions. The result keeps the playoff race wide open for Mumbai City and Bengaluru FC.

Player of the Match

Ashley Phillips (Minerva Punjab): Scored one goal and provided the decisive assist. His pace on the counter-attack caused constant problems for the Odisha defence.