ISL 2024-25: Odisha FC's 10-Men Secure 1-1 Stalemate Against Punjab FC, Remain in Playoff Contention
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Synopsis
In a thrilling match, Odisha FC managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Punjab FC despite being reduced to 10 men. Isak Vanlalruatfela's goal equalized Petros Giakoumakis's opener, keeping both teams in the playoff race. Odisha FC remains seventh, while Punjab FC is ninth in the ISL standings.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha FC and Punjab FC played to a thrilling 1-1 draw.
- Both teams are in contention for playoff spots.
- Rahul KP's red card impacted Odisha FC's strategy.
- Isak Vanlalruatfela's equalizer was crucial for Odisha's hopes.
- Punjab FC struggled to capitalize on their numerical advantage.
Bhubaneswar, Feb 10 (NationPress) Isak Vanlalruatfela equalized after Petros Giakoumakis' initial goal, allowing 10-man Odisha FC to draw 1-1 with Punjab FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season at Kalinga Stadium on Monday night.
Odisha FC faced challenges after a red card was issued to Rahul KP in the 44th minute, giving Punjab FC the upper hand as Giakoumakis scored first in the first half. However, Vanlalruatfela leveled the score for the Juggernauts in the 52nd minute, ensuring they secured a point in this challenging match. Both teams remain in the playoff race, with Odisha FC at 26 points in seventh place, while Punjab FC sits ninth with 24 points. For context, the sixth-placed NorthEast United FC holds 29 points.
Punjab FC started stronger, displaying positive play early in the match. Ezequiel Vidal made significant contributions in a free role, creating chances, including a cross that found Giakoumakis, who was initially ruled offside.
Odisha FC aimed to maintain control and navigate through Punjab FC’s aggressive pressing. In the 20th minute, Vanlalruatfela attempted to set up Hugo Boumous, but the latter was just offside.
A significant moment came in the 26th minute, when Punjab FC capitalized on a mistake by Boumous. Filip Mrzljak seized the opportunity but chose to pass instead of shooting, allowing the chance to slip away.
The turning point for Odisha FC was the unfortunate dismissal of Rahul KP, who clipped Mrzljak's ankle while he was down. The referee, witnessing the incident closely, issued a red card. Punjab FC took advantage of their numerical superiority, as Ricky Shabong's ball found Giakoumakis, who scored in stoppage time of the first half (45+2’).
Coach Sergio Lobera brought on Rahim Ali as Odisha FC prepared to face the second half with ten players.
Despite constant pressure from Punjab FC, Odisha FC fought back, and their persistence paid off in the 52nd minute. Isak and Diego Mauricio worked well together, and when Isak shot, Ravi Kumar failed to make a routine save, resulting in Odisha FC's equalizer.
In the 64th minute, Panagiotis Dilmperis made three substitutions for Punjab FC, bringing in Luka Majcen, Asmir Suljic, and Asish Pradhan. Majcen's runs kept Odisha FC's defense alert, while Suljic controlled the midfield.
Punjab FC maintained their momentum but struggled to find a decisive finish. In the 88th minute, Mrzljak's shot hit the post, and Majcen's follow-up was deflected away by Rahim Ali.
In stoppage time, Boumous had a golden opportunity to clinch victory for Odisha FC, but his shot was saved by Ravi Kumar, redeeming himself for earlier missteps.
Looking ahead, Odisha FC is set to take on Hyderabad FC on February 14, while Punjab FC faces Chennaiyin FC on February 15.
