Odisha FC clinches historic win over Bashundhara Kings

Odisha FC made history with a remarkable 1-0 win over ten-man Bashundhara Kings at the Kalinga Stadium, securing their place in the Inter-Zone Semi-Final Playoff for the first time ever.

The defining moment arrived in the 61st minute when Mourtada Fall’s header sealed victory for Odisha after Asror Gafurov’s expulsion in first-half injury time. This win propelled Odisha to 12 points, elevating them past their Bangladeshi counterparts and topping the group phase standings.

From the onset, Odisha FC exhibited a positive approach, creating numerous opportunities through the right flank, spearheaded by Cy Goddard, Amey Ranawade, and Diego Mauricio.

Despite Carlos Delgado’s missed opportunity in the 28th minute with a free header inside the box, both teams saw chances. However, Bashundhara Kings couldn’t capitalize, with Miguel Figueira’s left-footed shot veering far from the mark behind Odisha FC’s box.

The game’s turning point arrived with Asror Gafurov’s reckless challenge on Jahouh in added first-half time, resulting in a direct red card and leaving his team a man down.

At halftime, the scoreline remained level, but Odisha FC finally broke the deadlock in the 61st minute, outmaneuvering Bashundhara Kings’ 18-year-old goalkeeper Mehedi Hasan Srabon.

Ahmed Jahouh’s creative prowess and commanding control of the game allowed the hosts to dominate, notably in corners, unsettling the opponent’s defense multiple times.

In the dying moments, Jahouh had an opportunity in the 92nd minute to secure the win for Odisha FC but narrowly missed the target.

While Bashundhara Kings had chances, including Dori’s missed opportunity in the 55th minute and Robinho’s free-kick nearing the final whistle, they couldn’t alter the scoreline.

Odisha FC showcased resilience, bouncing back from two initial defeats to win their last four consecutive matches, demonstrating their character throughout the group stage.

This victory on Monday night stands as Odisha FC’s greatest achievement in continental events, cementing their place as the sole Indian team to progress to the AFC Cup Inter-Zone Semi-Final Playoff.

-IANS