Odisha FC comeback win : In an electrifying first-leg semi-final of the Indian Super League (ISL), Odisha FC staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the league shield winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant 2-1, thanks in large part to a stellar performance by Roy Krishna. This intense match saw both teams reduced to ten players by the final whistle.
Comeback Win for Odisha FC Thanks to Roy Krishna
Roy Krishna: Rejuvenated at Odisha FC
Once considered past his prime after a lackluster stint at ATK Mohun Bagan, Roy Krishna has found new life at Odisha FC. Despite turning 37 later this year, Krishna’s impact on the field has been undeniable. Scoring his 13th goal of the season, Krishna has now surpassed his scoring tally since his championship season in 2019-20, underlining a spectacular resurgence under the guidance of coach Sergio Lobera. Lobera, known for revitalizing the careers of overlooked players, seems to have worked his magic on Krishna.
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Match Dynamics and Key Moments
The match started off quickly with Manvir Singh putting Mohun Bagan ahead in just the third minute. However, this lead was short-lived as Carlos Delgado equalized for Odisha FC by the 11th minute. The real turnaround came in the 39th minute, a moment of brilliance mixed with a bit of fortune for Odisha FC. Goalkeeper Amrinder Singh launched a long ball towards Krishna, who, after a failed attempt at control, capitalized on a defensive error by Mohun Bagan’s Hector Yuste. Krishna deftly scored with an outside boot flick, marking the decisive goal of the match.
The tension on the field was palpable, exemplified by a contentious moment in the 14th minute when Krishna drew a foul from Vishal Kaith, leading to a penalty initially awarded by referee Tejas Nagvenkar before it was overturned for offside. Krishna continued to challenge Yuste throughout the game, highlighting the struggles faced by the Mohun Bagan defender.
A Game of Discipline and Errors
The match’s intensity escalated in the second half, with both teams suffering dismissals. Armando Sadiku’s aggressive conduct led to his sending off in the 67th minute, evening the sides after Delgado’s earlier handball offense. The game saw both teams desperately defending and trying to capitalize on set-pieces but failing to alter the scoreline further.
Looking Ahead
Odisha FC, maintaining an unbeaten home record this season, looks poised with confidence as they prepare for the challenging return leg against Mohun Bagan. With the league shield winners now facing a battle for survival, the upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Mohun Bagan will need to regroup and strategize effectively if they hope to overcome the setback and secure their place in the final.
This first-leg semi-final not only highlighted the unpredictability and excitement of the ISL but also showcased the enduring prowess of players like Roy Krishna, who continue to influence the game profoundly, proving that form is temporary, but class is permanent.
FAQs for “Comeback Win for Odisha FC Thanks to Roy Krishna”
1. Who scored for Odisha FC in their comeback win against Mohun Bagan?
Roy Krishna and Carlos Delgado scored for Odisha FC, leading to a 2-1 victory over Mohun Bagan in the ISL semi-final first leg.
2. What was significant about Roy Krishna’s performance in this match?
Roy Krishna scored his 13th goal of the season, marking his highest goal tally since the 2019-2020 ISL season. His performance was crucial in turning the game around for Odisha FC.
3. How did the match affect Mohun Bagan’s standing in the ISL?
The loss was a significant blow for Mohun Bagan Super Giant, as it was their second defeat in the 2024 ISL season after being the league shield winners. They now face a battle to stay in the competition in the return leg.
4. Were there any red cards in the game?
Yes, both teams ended the game with 10 players. Armando Sadiku of Mohun Bagan was sent off in the 67th minute for unnecessary aggression, and Carlos Delgado of Odisha FC was given a red card after a handball incident in the 73rd minute.
5. What strategies did Odisha FC employ to secure the win?
Odisha FC utilized a direct approach for their winning goal, significantly when Amrinder Singh’s long punt set up Krishna’s decisive strike. Despite their usual preference for possession-based play, this direct tactic proved effective in crucial moments.
6. What challenges do Mohun Bagan face in the upcoming return leg?
Mohun Bagan must overcome the deficit and secure a win in the return leg to progress to the finals. They will need to address their defensive errors and capitalize on their home advantage to overturn the first leg’s result.
7. When is the return leg of the semi-final scheduled?
The return leg of the semi-final is scheduled for the following Sunday, where Mohun Bagan will host Odisha FC in a critical match that could determine their fate in the ISL playoffs.
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