ISL 2024-25: East Bengal FC Takes on Odisha FC’s Offensive Force

Kolkata, Dec 11 (NationPress) East Bengal FC and Odisha FC are set to clash at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK) in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 on Thursday. The home team is buoyed by their ongoing three-match unbeaten streak, which includes two straight wins.

Notably, the last defeat the Red & Gold Brigade experienced in the ISL was against the Juggernauts, a close 2-1 loss back in October. The Juggernauts have managed two victories and two draws in their last five matches, placing them fifth on the points table with 16 points from 11 games, comprising four wins and four draws.

East Bengal FC has been improving, accumulating seven points from their last nine matches. Given their recent performances, both teams are eager to maintain their positive momentum. At this stage in the season, each favorable result significantly impacts future standings, adding extra weight to this matchup.

East Bengal FC has a unique opportunity to achieve three consecutive ISL victories by maximizing points in this game. Their current run of three unbeaten matches follows an eight-match stretch without a win, during which they suffered seven defeats. Head coach Oscar Bruzon aims to keep this momentum going.

Additionally, the team has been performing well defensively, achieving clean sheets in their last two home fixtures. The last time they recorded a longer clean sheet streak was three matches in December 2023, which included a goalless draw against Odisha FC on December 22, 2023.

The Juggernauts have consistently found the net every 43 minutes in ISL 2024-25, the fastest rate of any team this season. Their 23 goals scored thus far is the highest tally they have achieved after 11 games in any season. Diego Mauricio and Mourtada Fall lead their scoring charts, netting seven and four goals respectively. East Bengal FC’s newly established defensive strength will be tested in this match.

After a six-match span conceding goals in every away game, Odisha FC broke that trend with a commanding 6-0 victory in their latest away game against Hyderabad FC. The last time they faced a longer run of conceding was a three-game stretch between December 2023 and February 2024, starting with a goalless draw against East Bengal FC on December 22, 2023.

Head coach Oscar Bruzon of East Bengal FC acknowledged his team's commendable form but emphasized that there’s still a long way to achieve their season goals.

“The players are positive. We are not conceding too many chances. We are a team that is on a good run of results. But, we are still far off from where we want to be in the league table,” Bruzon stated.

Similarly, Odisha FC head coach Sergio Lobera commended East Bengal FC for their significant improvements in recent matches.

“East Bengal FC are a very competitive team. They’re working well, improving not just in football but also in mental motivation. It will be a very challenging game,” Lobera remarked.