Bhubaneswar, Feb 3: Odisha FC are gearing up to host NorthEast United FC at the Kalinga Stadium as part of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25. The match is set to kick off at 7:30 PM IST, with both teams having distinct objectives as they approach this tightly contested fixture.
With Odisha FC currently sitting seventh on the league table, they have found themselves outside the playoff zone and are desperate for points. They recently enjoyed a much-needed victory against Bengaluru FC, marking their first win in five games. Coach Sergio Lobera expressed the importance of the long 12-day break they had prior to this game, stating, "This break was needed for such a tournament because it's important for the team to prepare properly for the next game." The players are eager to push for the top six, especially as they return home, where they've historically dominated NorthEast United.
NorthEast United FC, currently fourth on the table with 28 points from 18 games, will enter the match full of confidence after obliterated Hyderabad FC with a comprehensive 4-1 victory. Head coach Juan Pedro Benali emphasized the need for his team to sustain their intensity, saying, "We have been working hard all season. We need to keep going until the very end to get where we want to." With aspirations of completing the season double over Odisha, they also bring an impressive away record, being unbeaten in their last three matches on the road.
Historically, the Juggernauts carry the edge over the Highlanders at home, having won all three of their previous encounters at the Kalinga Stadium. Despite suffering defeat to FC Goa earlier this season, they are determined to avoid consecutive home losses for the first time ever.
The stakes are high for both sides as every point is precious at this juncture of the season. A win for Odisha could propel them back within playoff contention, allowing them to leapfrog rival teams, including Mumbai City FC and Bengaluru FC, who also share 28 points but with fewer games played.
Notably, Odisha FC will miss key player Roy Krishna for the rest of the season due to injury, which leaves Diego Mauricio and Isak Vanlalruetfela to spearhead their attacking efforts. Both strikers need to capitalize on their chances to secure the win. On the visiting side, NorthEast United will field their squad without any injuries or suspensions, which gives them flexibility and confidence as they aim to strengthen their playoff position.
Odisha FC's potent offensive display, having scored 34 goals so far, ranks them third-highest goal-scorers, bolstered by players like Diego Mauricio, who has tallied nine goals this season. Meanwhile, NorthEast United boasts the highest share of passes made within the attacking third this season, showcasing their desire to maintain high-pressure gameplay. Yet, the Highlanders have also dropped 14 points from winning positions, showing vulnerabilities they must overcome to clinch this match.
The upcoming match is particularly enticing as both sides have reasons to strive hard for victory. Lobera intends to focus on overcoming inconsistencies for his side. "We need to compete not just for the next 7 games but also for the next 12 days where we will play 4 games. If we start thinking about where we will be later, it won't help us right now." The momentarily-poised teams will look toward securing the much-needed points as they battle on the pitch.
Anticipation builds as fans prepare to support their respective teams either through the live telecast on Sports 18 or via live streaming on JioCinema. With both teams emphasizing their goal-scoring and defensive capabilities, the clash tonight promises exciting action and intense gameplay as Odisha FC and NorthEast United FC aim to carve out their paths for the remainder of this ISL season.