Odisha FC aim to do double over East Bengal in Salt Lake clash
Riding high on the back of a four-match unbeaten streak, Odisha FC head into a crucial clash against neighbours East Bengal FC in the second meeting between the sides this season.
The Kalinga warriors will look to consolidate their position in the top 6, heading into the encounter as favourites following impressive wins against Hyderabad FC and Bengaluru FC, and a hard-fought draw against Mumbai City FC.
Odisha FC ran out 2-1 winners in the corresponding fixture at the Kalinga Stadium back in October, thanks to goals from Roy Krishna and Mourtada Fall. East Bengal FC’s lone goal came through Dimitrios Diamantakos, who converted a penalty in added time during the first half.
Last season, the teams shared the spoils after a goalless draw at the VYBK.
Current Form and Standings
Odisha FC's consistent run has lifted them to fifth on the ISL table with 16 points from 11 matches. The team has scored 10 goals in the last three matches.
On the other hand, East Bengal FC have had a challenging season. The Red and Gold Brigade needed help finding their rhythm in the initial stages, going winless in their opening fixtures. However, they seem to have turned a corner, securing back-to-back victories against Northeast United FC (1-0) and Chennaiyin FC (2-0). These wins have lifted them to 11th on the table with 7 points from 9 matches.
Odisha FC conducted their pre-match press conference on Tuesday at the Kalinga Stadium, when Head Coach Sergio Lobera and player Jerry Lalrinzuala addressed the media.
Addressing the importance of the match in building momentum, Lobera emphasized:
"Winning is always important. The next game is always the most crucial, as each one presents an opportunity for three points. This competition is highly competitive, and even a single point can be significant. With a long gap between our next games, it’s essential to capitalise now, maintain our position, and continue fighting for our top-six target."
When asked about the significance of the match given fans' expectations and East Bengal’s improved form after a slow start, Coach Lobera remarked: "Playing in Bengal is always special. It's good to be part of these high-stakes games, and our goal is to bring happiness to our people by securing a positive result. We aim for all three points. East Bengal may not deserve their current table position, given their quality players and recent resurgence after their AFC Cup success. They’re a strong and motivated team, and this will undoubtedly be a tough challenge."
The warriors will have back-to-back away games in Kolkata, known for being challenging for Odisha FC, Lobera stated: "Games like these are opportunities to showcase our potential. While Kalinga Stadium holds a special place for us, we must be prepared to compete anywhere. Playing in Kolkata provides a great chance to build on last season's results and continue our momentum."
When asked about the defensive challenges posed by East Bengal, Jerry Lalrinzuala shared:
"It will be a tough match as they have strong attacking players, both Indian and foreign. As defenders, we must stay focused and aim for a clean sheet to secure three points."
Reflecting on being the man of the match in the previous game and his personal aspirations, Jerry added: "I don’t dwell on individual accolades. My focus is to give 100% in every game and contribute to the team’s success. It’s about consistent performance, not individual recognition."
Match Details:
East Bengal FC vs Odisha FC
12th Dec | Thursday | 7.30 PM | Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium, Kolkata
Live on Sports18, JioCinema, Star Sports-3
Odisha FC aim to do double over East Bengal in Salt Lake clash
Riding high on the back of a four-match unbeaten streak, Odisha FC head into a crucial clash against neighbours East Bengal FC in the second meeting between the sides this season.
The Kalinga warriors will look to consolidate their position in the top 6, heading into the encounter as favourites following impressive wins against Hyderabad FC and Bengaluru FC, and a hard-fought draw against Mumbai City FC.
Odisha FC ran out 2-1 winners in the corresponding fixture at the Kalinga Stadium back in October, thanks to goals from Roy Krishna and Mourtada Fall. East Bengal FC’s lone goal came through Dimitrios Diamantakos, who converted a penalty in added time during the first half.
Last season, the teams shared the spoils after a goalless draw at the VYBK.
Current Form and Standings
Odisha FC's consistent run has lifted them to fifth on the ISL table with 16 points from 11 matches. The team has scored 10 goals in the last three matches.
On the other hand, East Bengal FC have had a challenging season. The Red and Gold Brigade needed help finding their rhythm in the initial stages, going winless in their opening fixtures. However, they seem to have turned a corner, securing back-to-back victories against Northeast United FC (1-0) and Chennaiyin FC (2-0). These wins have lifted them to 11th on the table with 7 points from 9 matches.
Odisha FC conducted their pre-match press conference on Tuesday at the Kalinga Stadium, when Head Coach Sergio Lobera and player Jerry Lalrinzuala addressed the media.
Addressing the importance of the match in building momentum, Lobera emphasized:
"Winning is always important. The next game is always the most crucial, as each one presents an opportunity for three points. This competition is highly competitive, and even a single point can be significant. With a long gap between our next games, it’s essential to capitalise now, maintain our position, and continue fighting for our top-six target."
When asked about the significance of the match given fans' expectations and East Bengal’s improved form after a slow start, Coach Lobera remarked: "Playing in Bengal is always special. It's good to be part of these high-stakes games, and our goal is to bring happiness to our people by securing a positive result. We aim for all three points. East Bengal may not deserve their current table position, given their quality players and recent resurgence after their AFC Cup success. They’re a strong and motivated team, and this will undoubtedly be a tough challenge."
The warriors will have back-to-back away games in Kolkata, known for being challenging for Odisha FC, Lobera stated: "Games like these are opportunities to showcase our potential. While Kalinga Stadium holds a special place for us, we must be prepared to compete anywhere. Playing in Kolkata provides a great chance to build on last season's results and continue our momentum."
When asked about the defensive challenges posed by East Bengal, Jerry Lalrinzuala shared:
"It will be a tough match as they have strong attacking players, both Indian and foreign. As defenders, we must stay focused and aim for a clean sheet to secure three points."
Reflecting on being the man of the match in the previous game and his personal aspirations, Jerry added: "I don’t dwell on individual accolades. My focus is to give 100% in every game and contribute to the team’s success. It’s about consistent performance, not individual recognition."
Match Details:
East Bengal FC vs Odisha FC
12th Dec | Thursday | 7.30 PM | Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium, Kolkata
Live on Sports18, JioCinema, Star Sports-3
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