ISL 2024-25: Punjab's Playoff Hopes Depend on Points Against Odisha, Says Head Coach Dilmperis
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Synopsis
Punjab FC seeks a league double against Odisha FC in a crucial ISL match at Kalinga Stadium on Monday. Currently ninth, Punjab aims for a playoff spot, while Odisha struggles to regain form. Key players and strategies will determine the match's outcome as both teams fight for vital points.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab FC aims for essential points against Odisha FC.
- Head Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis emphasizes the match's importance.
- Punjab currently sits ninth, chasing a playoff position.
- Key players include Nikhil Prabhu and Luka Majcen.
- Odisha FC struggles for form, missing Ahmed Jahouh.
Bhubaneshwar, Feb 9 (NationPress) Punjab FC is aiming for a league double as they face Odisha FC in the upcoming Indian Super League match set to take place at the Kalinga Stadium on Monday.
The Shers, currently in ninth place with 23 points from 18 games, will challenge their rivals who are positioned seventh with 25 points from 19 matches. A favorable outcome in this clash could propel Punjab FC to seventh place, just two points behind Bengaluru FC, who occupy the final playoff position.
In a pre-match briefing, Punjab FC's Head Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis highlighted the significance of the upcoming match, stating, “Everyone is aware that this is a vital game; we have six matches that will feel like six finals, and we are fully focused on the demands of this match.”
“This match is extremely crucial; if we aim to qualify for the next round, we must secure points from tomorrow’s encounter, and winning would be a significant step forward for us,” he added.
The Shers faced a 3-0 defeat against league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant despite a commendable first-half performance on Wednesday in Kolkata, while Odisha FC suffered a 2-1 loss to FC Goa in their last match on Thursday in Goa.
Punjab will gain strength from the return of Nikhil Prabhu, who was sidelined due to injury during the match against Mohun Bagan. The midfielder has showcased exceptional form this season, making 48 interceptions—the highest in the league. Wing back Tekcham Abhishek Singh has also excelled, having earned the Player of the Match title three times. The attacking trio of Luka Majcen, Ezequiel Pulga Vidal, Filip Mrzljak, and Asmir Suljic have collectively accounted for 20 out of the 26 goals this season, with Luka leading the scoring chart with seven goals.
Goalkeeper Ravi Kumar expressed during the pre-match press conference, “We all recognize the match's significance. A win against a strong team would be a step forward for us to enter the top six. The team is united in our approach; we must play to win, strive for three points, and give our all for the team.”
Odisha FC has managed to win only once in their last five matches, and Sergio Lobera will be eager to secure a positive outcome to keep their playoff aspirations alive. They will, however, be without their key midfielder Ahmed Jahouh, who was red-carded in the previous match against FC Goa.
In their earlier encounter this season in New Delhi, Punjab FC triumphed over Odisha FC with a score of 2-1, thanks to goals from Nihal Sudeesh and Leon Augustine.
With both teams vying for a playoff berth, securing three points will be crucial, promising an exciting match ahead.
