After a glorious victory against NorthEast United FC (NEUFC), Odisha FC has climbed the ranks of the Indian Super League (ISL) table and are now up to the fifth position. The Bhubaneswar-based side secured a convincing 2-0 victory against NEUFC. With five back to back losses, NorthEast United currently occupy 10th place in the standings.
The opening goal was scored by Daniel Lalhlimpuia at the 17th minute, his first goal of the season, giving Odisha FC an early lead. Soon after, Aridai Suarez scored the second one at the 22nd minute, extending the lead further.
Early exchanges in the game did cause excitement on both ends. Suhair Vadakkepeedika provided Lalkhawpuimawia with a decent chance, but the forward miscued his shot from 12 yards out, disappointing the supporters of NEUFC.
During the second half, NEUFC tried to score with Hernan Santana blasting his volley against the crossbar from long range. The last 30 minutes saw Nandhakumar Sekar, who came on from the bench, trying to score the third but had his shot saved in a one-on-one situation.
Laldanmawia Ralte looked to have reduced the deficit in the late stages of the match. However, his goal was ruled out for offside by the officials. Later, the fourth official added four minutes for stoppages following which OFC secured all three points and also recorded a morale-boosting clean sheet.
NEUFC will compete against Chennaiyin FC in their upcoming game on Saturday. Meanwhile, Odisha FC will have to wait nine days before meeting Hyderabad FC in Vasco.