Thursday , December 26 2024

ISL: Odisha FC will challenge the dominance of Mumbai City FC

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Bhubaneswar, 04 December (Hindustan Reporter). Mumbai City FC and Odisha FC will meet for the second time in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 when the Juggernauts host the Islanders in the reverse fixture at their home ground Kalinga Stadium on Thursday at 7:30 PM IST.

The first match of this season played between the two teams in Mumbai in October was a 1-1 draw. But both will be eyeing to win full three points in the upcoming match. Odisha FC is third in the table with 15 points from 10 matches with four wins, three draws and three losses. While Mumbai City FC is placed eighth in the table with 13 points from nine matches with three wins, four draws and two losses.

Re-emergence of juggernauts on home ground-

Goal Scoring Streak: The Juggernauts have scored in each of their last 10 home ISL matches. If he scores in the upcoming match, he will equal his record of scoring goals in 11 consecutive home matches between December 2019 and December 2022.

Edge in attack: With 23 goals from an expected goals (xG) total of 12.68 this season, Odisha FC boast the highest xG differential (+10.32) in the league, reflecting their exceptional finishing ability.

Islanders’ defensive discipline and undefeated streak: The Islanders are undefeated in their last six matches (4 wins, 2 draws) against Odisha FC.

Bipin Singh’s Impact: Bipin Singh has had a great record against Odisha FC with a contribution of nine goals (7 goals and 2 assists).

face to face

11 matches have been played between the two teams in ISL, out of which Mumbai City FC has won six matches, while Odisha FC has emerged victorious thrice. Two matches were drawn.

we will rely on our strength

Odisha FC’s Spanish head Sergio Lobera said that the juggernauts will not be influenced by the strength of Mumbai City but will stick to their playing philosophy.

He said, “We know our playing style and strengths and we have to play accordingly. The team is ready for tomorrow’s match.”

Juggernauts need to find a way to stop them from scoring goals

According to Mumbai City FC’s Czech head coach Peter Kratky, the Islanders need defensive strength to stop Odisha FC’s goal streak.

He said, “Odisha FC has scored 10 goals in their last two matches. We have to find a way to stop him and we also have to stay true to our playing style.”