Raphael Messi Bouli made an unforgettable debut for Punjab FC, scoring twice to guide his new team to a dramatic 2-1 victory over Odisha FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Wednesday.
The 34-year-old Cameroonian striker proved to be the difference between the two sides, finding the net in the opening minute before delivering a sensational stoppage-time winner to secure all three points for Punjab.
Bouli, who joined Punjab as a free agent after representing Jamshedpur FC last season, wasted little time making an impact at his new club.
Punjab got off to a flying start, taking the lead just 39 seconds after kick-off. Muhammad Uvais produced an excellent low cross from the left flank, splitting the Odisha defence and allowing Bouli to finish comfortably from close range.
The early breakthrough gave the home side confidence as they continued to threaten Odisha’s defence during the opening stages.
However, Odisha gradually settled into the contest and responded with an equaliser in the 15th minute.
Lalthathanga Khawlhring delivered a well-directed corner into the penalty area, where Thoiba Singh Moirangthem found himself unmarked. The 23-year-old midfielder from Manipur rose to meet the delivery and powered a header past Punjab goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh.
With both teams level at 1-1, the match developed into a closely fought contest as neither side could establish a decisive advantage before half-time.
Punjab returned from the break with greater attacking intent and created opportunities to regain the lead.
One of their best chances arrived in the 56th minute when Muhammad Suhail made an impressive run down the left wing before delivering a clever cross using the outside of his right foot.
The ball reached Spanish forward Alfred Moya, but his first-time attempt flew over the crossbar, allowing Odisha to escape.
As the match entered its closing stages, both teams appeared destined to share the points.
But Bouli had other plans.
Deep into stoppage time, substitute Bishu Sharma delivered a cross from the right flank, and the experienced Cameroonian striker reacted sharply to score his second goal of the evening.
The dramatic late strike sparked celebrations for Punjab, who secured a hard-fought victory after being held level for most of the contest.
For Bouli, it was a perfect introduction to life at Punjab FC, with his clinical finishing proving decisive at both the beginning and the end of an entertaining ISL encounter.
