IWL 2024-25: HOPS FC outlast Odisha 3-2 in crucial survival match
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Synopsis
In a gripping relegation battle at Kalinga Stadium, HOPS FC secured a vital 3-2 victory over Odisha FC. This win keeps HOPS' hopes alive as they continue their fight against relegation. The match was filled with intense moments and remarkable performances from both teams.
Key Takeaways
- HOPS FC secured a crucial win against Odisha FC.
- The match ended with a scoreline of 3-2.
- Both teams were tied at 2-2 at halftime.
- Pooja scored two goals for HOPS FC.
- Kiran Pisda contributed an own goal early in the match.
Bhubaneswar, April 6 (NationPress) HOPS FC triumphed over the reigning champions Odisha FC with a score of 3-2 in a thrilling relegation clash at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar during the IWL 2024-25 season on Sunday. Both teams were tied at 2-2 at halftime.
The visitors faced a challenging scenario, where anything less than a victory could lead to relegation by season's end. However, the Delhi-based team elevated their performance.
Kiran Pisda’s (13’ og) own goal initially gave HOPS the advantage, while Pooja (34’, 90′) made significant contributions with a brace. Both Neha (14’) and Pyari Xaxa (45+1’) found the net for Odisha FC.
HOPS took the lead unexpectedly when Gladys Amfobea surged down the right flank in the 13th minute, delivering a low cross. Kiran attempted to clear the ball but inadvertently diverted it into her own goal.
Kiran quickly rectified her mistake, providing a cross from the left that hit the crossbar and fell to Neha, who capitalized on the opportunity to score.
Despite Odisha dominating possession, HOPS regained the lead. Gladys sent in another low cross from the left that hit the far post, allowing Pooja to score.
Odisha FC equalized again just before halftime injury time, thanks to a through ball from Jennifer Yeboah to Pyari, who finished clinically at the far post.
With renewed energy from their second equalizer, Odisha ramped up their offensive efforts, creating several chances.
Lynda Kom Serto had a couple of near misses after the hour mark, with her long-range effort in the 65th minute soaring just over the crossbar. Moments later, she was played through inside the HOPS box, but a brilliant save from Odisha FC goalkeeper Anshika kept the score level.
Despite being under pressure, HOPS remained competitive. Gladys was played through on the left, but her attempt was cleared off the line by Malati Munda of Odisha.
In the final minute of regulation, Gladys created yet another chance to keep her team's hopes alive, sprinting down the right and cutting it back for Pooja. Her shot was deflected out, leading to a corner that caused chaos in the Odisha box, ultimately allowing Pooja to volley it home.
Jennifer had a chance to level the score once more in injury time after Lynda Kom set her up behind the HOPS defense, but her shot went directly at the keeper.
A late free-kick awarded to Jennifer saw Lynda Kom take aim at the top-left corner, but her effort went narrowly wide.
