ISL 2024-25: Odisha FC Set Sights on Crucial Points Against Mohammedan SC to Keep Playoff Hopes Alive
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Synopsis
Odisha FC is gearing up to face Mohammedan SC at Kalinga Stadium in the ISL 2024-25. With playoff hopes on the line, Odisha's recent form is a concern, while Mohammedan SC seeks to break a losing streak. Both teams are under pressure to secure points as the league progresses.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha FC needs to win to stay in playoff contention.
- Mohammedan SC is struggling at the bottom of the table.
- Odisha FC is unbeaten in their last three home matches.
- Set pieces play a crucial role for Mohammedan SC.
- Both teams want to secure a win for their fans.
Bhubaneswar, Feb 27 (NationPress) Odisha FC is set to face off against Mohammedan SC at the Kalinga Stadium in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 this Friday.
The home team has encountered a series of setbacks, with a record of two defeats and three draws in their last five matches, which has adversely affected their playoff ambitions. Currently, they sit in the seventh position with 29 points from 22 games, achieving seven victories and eight draws. They trail sixth place Mumbai City FC by three points, although the Islanders have played one match less (21).
Odisha FC is also facing tough competition from East Bengal FC and Kerala Blasters FC, who have 27 and 24 points from 22 and 21 matches respectively. For the team coached by Sergio Lobera, it is crucial that Mumbai City FC and/or NorthEast United FC drop points in upcoming matches to maintain their playoff aspirations.
In contrast, Mohammedan SC has faced defeats in all of their last five matches and currently sits at the bottom of the table with only 11 points from 21 games. They will aim to make Odisha FC their third victim of the season, following victories against Chennaiyin FC and Bengaluru FC, but their recent form poses a significant challenge. However, they can draw confidence from their two wins this season, both achieved away from home.
Odisha FC is currently unbeaten in their last three home games (W1 D2) in the ISL, and they aim to secure back-to-back home victories for the first time since their four-match winning streak from February to April 2024.
In their previous outing, Odisha FC was unable to find the net, suffering a 0-1 defeat to Mohun Bagan Super Giant. The last instance they went goalless in consecutive matches was in early 2023, and as the season's second-highest scorers (41), they are eager to avoid repeating that situation.
A further loss in this contest would mark the longest losing streak in ISL history for Mohammedan SC.
Notably, 70 percent of Mohammedan SC’s goals this season (7 out of 10) have originated from set pieces, the highest proportion among all teams. Conversely, Odisha FC has conceded only 26 percent of their goals from set pieces, making it one of the lowest rates in the league.
The only previous ISL meeting between these teams resulted in a draw earlier this season. Odisha FC's head coach, Sergio Lobera, has stated that his team is determined to keep fighting for a spot in the top six until the very end.
“As a team, we want to believe until the end, keep fighting, and hopefully qualify for the playoffs. We also want to bring joy to our fans,” he remarked.
Mohammedan SC’s assistant coach, Mehrajuddin Wadoo, has emphasized that his team is prepared to give their best in the upcoming match.
“We have been preparing well for the last few days to face Odisha FC. Although our recent performances haven't been ideal, we always strive to put forth our best effort for the club. This is a game we are determined to win,” he stated.
