New Delhi, October 16: Inter Kashi FC and Odisha FC will be eager to register their first points of the MG Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 season when they meet at Balewadi Stadium in Pune on Saturday, after defeats in their opening fixtures.
Inter Kashi lost 2-0 to Kerala Blasters FC, while Odisha FC fell 2-1 to Punjab FC. Both sides will be determined to bounce back, with their coaches seeking improved performances as the campaign gathers momentum.
Inter Kashi showed attacking promise against Kerala Blasters, with Rosenberg Gabriel and Manvir Singh creating opportunities in the final third. However, Vibin Mohanan put the Blasters ahead in the 18th minute before Andre Green sealed the win in stoppage time.
Head coach Carlos Vaz Pinto remained confident about his team’s prospects, despite their limited time together. “We are ready to compete and we are targeting three points,” he said, highlighting the progress his players have made in understanding his tactical ideas in both offensive and defensive phases.
Midfielder Hitesh Sharma, who previously represented Odisha FC, will also be looking to make an impact in his new role at Inter Kashi. Speaking about his adaptation to the progressive ‘9.5’ position, Sharma said, “This 9.5 position… I have had it for the first time, but I think I am learning and quite enjoying it.”
Odisha FC, meanwhile, will be keen to recover from their narrow defeat against Punjab FC.
The Juggernauts conceded inside the opening minute but responded through Thoiba Moirangthem, who headed home from a corner in the 15th minute. However, Raphaël Messi Bouli struck in the fifth minute of stoppage time to secure all three points for Punjab.
Odisha head coach TG Purushothaman has set ambitious targets for the season, insisting his team must aim higher than last campaign. “We have to fight for the top spot and not like last year,” Purushothaman said.
The coach also acknowledged that integrating a new-look squad would require patience, estimating that his players could need two to three matches to develop the necessary understanding and chemistry.
With both teams seeking their first points, Saturday’s encounter presents an early opportunity to regain momentum. Inter Kashi will look to convert their attacking promise into goals, while Odisha will aim to improve their finishing and turn competitive spells into a positive result.