In a gripping Indian Super League (ISL) encounter, Odisha FC showcased resilience and determination to secure a 1-1 draw against Punjab FC, despite playing with 10 men for the majority of the match. The Kalinga Warriors, led by head coach Sergio Lobera, fought valiantly to keep their playoff hopes alive in a game filled with drama and intensity.
The match took a dramatic turn just before halftime when Odisha FC’s Rahul KP was shown a red card, reducing the home side to 10 players. Punjab FC capitalized on the numerical advantage almost immediately, with Petros Giakoumakis finding the back of the net in stoppage time to give the visitors the lead.
However, Odisha FC refused to back down. Displaying remarkable spirit, they equalized in the 52nd minute through Isak Vanlalruatfela, who slotted home a crucial goal to level the scoreline. Despite being a man down, Odisha FC continued to push for a winner, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to securing three points.
Speaking after the match, head coach Sergio Lobera praised his team’s mentality and collective effort. “The players showed up till the end. We wanted to win the game, and we are not happy with the draw, even though we played with 10 players. It’s impossible to ask more of my players today. They showed ambition, teamwork, and belief till the end,” Lobera said.
The draw marks Odisha FC’s third consecutive stalemate at home, following a 2-2 draw against NorthEast United FC and a goalless tie with Mumbai City FC. With this result, Odisha FC remain in seventh place in the ISL standings, three points behind sixth-placed NorthEast United FC.
Lobera acknowledged the challenges his team faced, including the absence of key players Ahmed Jahouh and Mourtada Fall due to suspensions. “This is part of football. There are injuries, there are suspensions, but we need to focus on what is in our hands and improve,” he said.
Punjab FC, on the other hand, posed a constant threat, particularly through their attacking trio of Giakoumakis, Filip Mrzljak, and Ezequiel Vidal. Despite their efforts, Odisha FC’s defense held firm, earning praise from Lobera for their adaptability and discipline.
With four crucial matches remaining in the season, Lobera emphasized the importance of treating every game as a final. “We don’t have the margin to make mistakes. We are going to play every game as a final, fighting for every minute. Our supporters and this club deserve to make the playoffs, and we will give everything to achieve that,” he stated.
Odisha FC’s next challenge comes on February 14, when they face Hyderabad FC in a must-win encounter. As the race for the playoffs heats up, the Kalinga Warriors will look to channel their fighting spirit and determination to secure a spot in the top six.
For now, Odisha FC can take pride in their performance against Punjab FC, a testament to their resilience and unwavering belief in the face of adversity.
