Bhubaneswar, December 17, 2023: In the clash between Odisha vs Hyderabad, Odisha FC produced a commanding performance to thrash Hyderabad FC 3-0 at the Kalinga Stadium on Sunday, soaring into the top four of the Indian Super League (ISL) table.
The hosts dominated the game from start to finish, dictating the tempo and creating numerous chances. The pressure paid off in the 32nd minute when Roy Krishna pounced on a defensive error in the box to slot home the opening goal. Hyderabad struggled to find their rhythm and offered little in response.
Odisha doubled their lead in the 65th minute, courtesy of a powerful header from Mourtada Fall. The Senegalese striker rose above the Hyderabad defense to meet a pinpoint cross from Jerry Mawih, leaving Laxmikant Kattimani with no chance in goal.
The icing on the cake came in the 82nd minute when substitute Saul Crespo rounded off the scoring with a fine finish. Receiving the ball at the edge of the area, the Spanish forward curled a delightful shot into the top corner, leaving Kattimani rooted to the spot.
This emphatic victory was a statement of intent from Odisha FC, who have now gone seven games unbeaten in the ISL. Their attacking prowess was on full display, with the duo of Krishna and Fall causing havoc for the Hyderabad defense.
For Hyderabad, the defeat extends their winless run to six games and plunges them deeper into crisis. Head coach Manolo Marquez will have plenty to ponder as his team continues to struggle at the bottom of the table.
Key Points
- Odisha FC beat Hyderabad FC 3-0 at the Kalinga Stadium.
- Roy Krishna, Mourtada Fall, and Saul Crespo scored for the hosts.
- Odisha climbed to fourth place in the ISL table, while Hyderabad remains rooted at the bottom.
Key Highlights of Odisha FC’s 3-0 Thumping of Hyderabad FC
1. Dominant Display by Odisha FC
- From the get-go, Odisha took control of the match, dictating the tempo and creating numerous scoring opportunities. Their passing was crisp, movement was fluid, and defense was resolute.
2. Roy Krishna’s Clinical Double
- The Fijian striker proved unstoppable upfront, bagging a brace to put Odisha in firm control. His first goal came in the 32nd minute after capitalizing on a defensive error, while his second in the 82nd minute was a composed finish after a mazy run.
3. Mourtada Fall’s Powerful Header
- The Senegalese defender rose above the Hyderabad defense to meet a pinpoint cross in the 65th minute, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. This headed goal doubled Odisha’s lead and solidified their dominance.
4. Saul Crespo’s Icing on the Cake
- Substitute Crespo put the final nail in the coffin with a delightful strike in the 82nd minute. He received the ball at the edge of the area and curled a beautiful shot into the top corner, showcasing his technical prowess.
5. Hyderabad’s Struggles Continue
- The defeat extended Hyderabad’s winless run to six games, leaving them languishing at the bottom of the table. Their defensive frailties were exposed throughout the match, and they failed to create any clear chances of their own.
6. Odisha Climb into Top 4
- This emphatic victory propelled Odisha FC into the top four of the ISL table, showcasing their potential as a serious contender for the title. Their seven-game unbeaten run is a testament to their consistency and resilience.
7. A Statement of Intent
- Odisha’s dominant performance served as a strong message to the rest of the league. Their attacking prowess, defensive solidity, and overall team spirit make them a force to be reckoned with.
