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Odisha FC keeps their ISL playoff hope alive as they hold FC Goa to a 1-1 draw at the Kalinga despite being reduced to 10 men.
What was building up to be a mouth-watering encounter, the game lived up to its expectations as both sides displayed end-to-end thrilling footballing action.
Osama Malik was ruled out for the game against FC Goa due to an injury he picked up against Chennaiyin FC. Narender Gahlot moved back to his original position to fill in along with Carlos Delgado. Shubham Sarangi got his first start of the season while Pedro made his way back to the starting eleven with Diego Mauricio leading the attack.
The Gaurs got a perfect start to the game through Noah Sadaoui in the second minute. Vasquez picked up a loose ball in the midfield as Josep’s men were venturing forward and put it across to Sadaoui who made the run from the left flank and made no mistake in putting the ball at the back of the net.
The Eastern Dragons dominated the first period after going down a goal and managed to create better chances. FC Goa defended with a majority at the back and came very close to conceding a few times. The visitor’s defence was breached when Isak was brought down a couple of yards outside the box. The Brazilian stepped up and produced a stunning free-kick to bring the hosts on level terms right at the stroke of half-time.
Diego and Noah set up the second half for some end-to-end action as both sides were on the hunt for a second goal. Odisha FC was reduced to 10 men in the 67th minute as Sahil was brandished with a second yellow for a tackle from behind. The game dropped pace as Josep’s men sat tight at the back and made sure there were no breaches.
Amrinder Singh managed to produce a stunning save in the 81st minute denying Hernan Santana a chance to get on the scoresheet.
This result keeps Odisha FC level in matches with Bengaluru FC, but only a point below the sixth spot. Josep Gombau’s side stays put at home as Hyderabad FC pay a visit to the Kalinga on February 10.
