The training and maint matters more than the platform. In Indo-Pak wars, the PAF has lost F-86s and F-104s to both Mysteres and Ajeets (The Folland Gnat converted to a light fighter by the Indian Air Force). Both Indian aircraft had much less capabilities than the F-104/F-86
You mention some losses but that is meaningless without complete statistics. On any given Sunday, a 1-14 team can beat the prior year’s Super Bowl champs, but don’t bet your lunch money for that to be a regular occurrence.