Kolkata, April 17: Mohammedan Sporting Club finally opened their account in the Indian Super League 2025-26 season, battling to a 1-1 draw against Odisha FC at the Kalinga Stadium on Friday.
After a difficult start to the campaign, the Kolkata-based side showed resilience to come from behind and secure a crucial first point. Odisha FC, meanwhile, will feel they missed an opportunity to take all three points despite controlling large spells of the match.
Odisha took the lead just before half-time through Suhair VP, who finished off a sharp counter-attacking move. However, Mohammedan responded early in the second half, with Adison Singh finding the net to bring his side back into the contest.
The game began cautiously, with both teams focusing on maintaining shape and control in midfield. Odisha enjoyed more possession in the opening minutes, while Mohammedan looked to exploit spaces on the counter.
As the match progressed, Mohammedan started to settle. Hira Mondal and Mahitosh Roy attempted efforts from distance, while Lalremsanga Fanai came close to breaking the deadlock but fired into the side netting after a promising attacking move.
Odisha responded with attacking intent of their own. Subham Bhattacharya threatened from close range during a crowded penalty-box situation, while Isak Vanlalruatfela and Lalrinfela Khiangte made dangerous runs behind the defence. At the back, Carlos Delgado and Thoiba Singh remained composed, contributing to both defensive duties and build-up play.
The breakthrough came in the 40th minute following a swift counter. Isak initiated the move from deep before combining with Lalrinfela, whose precise through ball released Suhair VP. The forward drove into the box and fired a powerful left-footed shot past goalkeeper Padam Chettri to give Odisha a 1-0 lead.
Mohammedan nearly found an instant reply before half-time, but Adison Singh’s effort was denied by Odisha goalkeeper Amrinder Singh, ensuring the hosts carried their advantage into the interval.
Mohammedan came out with greater urgency in the second half. Lalremsanga and Mahitosh both had opportunities but failed to hit the target, with Mahitosh missing a particularly good chance following a defensive lapse.
Their persistence paid off in the 56th minute. Hira Mondal made an overlapping run down the right flank and delivered a low cross into the box. Adison Singh timed his run perfectly and finished clinically, guiding the ball into the top corner to make it 1-1.
The equaliser opened up the contest, with both teams pushing forward in search of a winner. Mohammedan looked threatening on quick transitions, particularly through Adison Singh and Llangaihsaka, while Odisha continued to dominate possession and create openings.
In the closing stages, Odisha came close to regaining the lead. Rahim Ali nearly capitalised on a goalkeeping error, and Isak forced a strong save from Padam Chettri with a curling effort. Carlos Delgado also went close with a header from a set-piece.
Despite late pressure and added-time drama, neither side could find the decisive goal.
The final whistle confirmed a 1-1 draw, marking a significant milestone for Mohammedan SC as they secured their first point of the season after eight matches. Odisha FC, on the other hand, will be disappointed not to convert their chances into a victory.
Lalthathanga Khawlhring was named Player of the Match for his impactful performance in midfield.
Following the 1–1 draw, Mehrajuddin Wadoo reflected on a significant moment for his young side in the Indian Super League, as they secured their first point of the campaign. He stated the importance of this result in boosting the team’s morale, especially given the challenges they have faced so far.
The coach expressed satisfaction with the players’ effort and overall performance, highlighting their ability to create multiple goal-scoring opportunities. However, he also admitted a sense of disappointment, stating that based on their dominance and chance creation, the team could have secured all three points though he minded this as a young side and suffering to settle down. Looking ahead, accepting the draw while shifting focus toward the upcoming fixture against Chennaiyin FC.
Wadoo expressed
“We created a lot of chances.We created a lot of chances and we have to capitalize those chances. The boys, they played well. We have got a young team. We have got young players in the team. And playing in a big game, I think, we deserved a point at least from this game and we got the point”.
ISL 2025-26 – Odisha FC vs Mohammedan SC highlights
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