BENGALURU: Odisha FC returned to winning ways after four matches with a 3-2 triumph over Bengaluru FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season, on Wednesday, January 22, 2025.
The hosts started the game strongly as they were 2-0 up within the first 13 minutes courtesy of goals from Edgar Mendez and Sunil Chhetri. However, Odisha FC came back into the game when Aleksandar Jovanovic was handed marching orders and Diego Mauricio converted two consecutive spot-kicks before Jerry Mawihmingthanga scored the decisive goal in the second half.

The hosts found the net in the 10th minute courtesy of a goal from Mendez. Suresh Wangjam picked out the Spaniard with a fantastic long ball, and the experienced forward calmly slotted it past Thoiba Moirangthem and Amrinder Singh in goal.

Bengaluru FC doubled the lead in the 13th minute when Alberto Noguera recycled possession and played a great ball to Chhetri, who showed exquisite footwork to waltz past the entire Odisha FC backline before nestling it into the top right corner of the net.

The entire complexion of the game changed when the referee rewarded a penalty to Odisha FC in the 26th minute after Aleksandar Jovanovic brought down Mauricio in the penalty area. The Australian defender was subsequently sent off as the referee felt that he denied a clear goal-scoring opportunity. Mauricio stepped up to take the spot-kick and slotted it home with aplomb, bringing the visitors back into the game.

Odisha FC clawed their way back into the game in the 38th minute when Roshan Singh handled the ball in the penalty area and awarded a penalty to the opposition. Mauricio again stepped up and calmly slotted it home, completing his brace.

Odisha FC eventually took the lead in the 50th minute when Jerry held his nerve and steered it home from Boumous’ inch-perfect cross into the danger area after Mourtada Fall glided it onto the far post.

Bengaluru FC will face Mohun Bagan Super Giant on January 27, whereas Odisha FC will host NorthEast United FC on February 3.

(Courtesy: ISL Media Team)