Guwahati/Fatorda, April 9 (NationPress) FC Goa aims to rebound from their initial defeat of the season as they clash with Odisha FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 at the PJN Stadium in Goa this Friday. In the earlier match, Sporting Club Delhi will seek to secure their second successive victory after claiming their first win of the season in their previous game against NorthEast United FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati.

NorthEast United FC returns to their home ground after a 20-day absence, looking to recover from a 1-4 defeat to Odisha FC last month. SC Delhi arrives in Guwahati eager to maintain their momentum following their first ISL win.

Currently positioned 12th with five points, Delhi trails NorthEast United by just one point. A win on Friday would elevate them to eight points, allowing them to surpass their opponents. Historically, SC Delhi (considering their previous identities as Hyderabad FC and FC Pune City) leads with 10 wins against NorthEast United’s seven, alongside five draws.

NorthEast United FC’s head coach, Juan Pedro Benali, anticipates a challenging encounter, recognizing the visitors’ distinct tactical approach. "They play exciting football with a clear system and possess quick, technically skilled players," Benali remarked. "Their coach has them highly motivated following their last win, contrasting with our recent performance. It won't be an easy match for us."

NorthEast United forward Ankith Padmanabhan expressed the team’s determination to regain their winning form. "We are fully committed to achieving three points," Padmanabhan stated. "The spirit in our dressing room is always upbeat, and we are just one victory away from reclaiming our rhythm."

For Sporting Club Delhi, Assistant Coach Noel Joseph welcomed the high stakes of the match. "We approach each game as an opportunity to climb the standings. Our recent performances have been impressive, and this match is another chance to elevate our standards," Joseph asserted.

SC Delhi Head Coach Tomasz Tchórz will miss the match due to a suspension from a red card received in their last game against Kerala Blasters. Joseph highlighted the tactical challenge, noting, "NorthEast United is well-structured, organized, and creative on set pieces. We respect them, but our goal is to secure three points."

SC Delhi's Augustine Lalrochana emphasized the importance of maintaining their upward momentum. "Winning our next match will help us rise in the standings. We must win every game, so we are dedicated and focused on the upcoming match," he stated.

In the evening match, FC Goa will face Odisha FC in Fatorda, looking to recover from a 0-2 defeat to Bengaluru FC that ended their unbeaten streak. Dropping to seventh place with 10 points, head coach Manolo Márquez's team needs to turn their four draws from seven matches into victories. A win would bring them to 13 points.

Odisha FC visits Goa hoping to bounce back from a narrow 0-1 loss to league leaders Mumbai City FC. Despite a solid defensive performance led by Carlos Delgado and key saves from goalkeeper Amrinder Singh, the Juggernauts conceded a goal in the 73rd minute.

Currently sitting 10th with five points from five matches, Odisha FC aims to climb the rankings, and a win would enhance their prospects, especially with games in hand.

FC Goa has historically dominated this fixture, securing 15 wins against Odisha FC's three in 24 ISL encounters, including six draws. The Gaurs clinched a 2-1 victory in their latest meeting in Goa back in February 2025.

Reflecting on their recent form and the season's concluding phase, FC Goa's head coach Manolo Márquez emphasized the need for a stronger start from his team. "I was disappointed with our opening. Allowing goals early against experienced teams like Bengaluru is unacceptable. Despite having more possession, they controlled the match," Márquez explained. "Nevertheless, I have confidence in my squad, and I believe we can achieve a successful season."

With just six matches left, Márquez added, "We sit mid-table, so it's also time to give opportunities to other players. We can still fight for more, although reaching the top spots will be challenging."

Discussing Odisha FC, Márquez commended their defensive organization. "They have proven to be competitive, despite initial concerns regarding their early training. They have experienced players and will be a tough opponent. The team that scores first will hold a significant advantage," he noted.

FC Goa's young talent, Bob Jackson Raj, shared insights on the internal competition within the squad. "As a young player, the desire to play is strong, but it’s crucial to focus on training and wait for opportunities," Raj remarked.

For Odisha FC, head coach T.G. Purushothaman expressed pride in his team's effort and outlined his tactical focus post-defeat. "These players have shown excellent teamwork and commitment. We are concentrating on the upcoming match, focusing on all aspects – defense, attack, and transitions. Goals will come as we create more opportunities," Purushothaman stated.

Anticipating a closely contested tactical battle against FC Goa’s domestically heavy squad, Purushothaman added, "It will be a well-fought match. My focus is on quality rather than foreign players. We face a strong team with a competent coach. We are ready and have developed strategies to implement against them."

Odisha FC midfielder Rohit Kumar highlighted the team's resilience despite limited preparation time. "As professionals, we must perform under any circumstances. We were eager to play," Kumar indicated. "Though our pre-season was brief, the coach instilled confidence in us. We’ve improved since our first game and aim to continue this progress."

With critical points at stake, all four teams are eager to secure victories in their respective matches and gain momentum in this crucial phase of the season.