The highly anticipated match between Kickstart FC and Odisha FC at the top of the table in the IWL 2023–24 season ended in an exciting goalless draw on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at the Bangalore Football Stadium. This result was a major turning point for Odisha, who had won five games in a row before dropping their opening point of the league. Odisha dominated possession and built from the back, while Kickstart FC took a more defensive stance and looked for opportunities on the counter. The two teams displayed different playing styles during the match.
First Half Drama:
There was a noticeable sense of intensity in the air as the two teams immediately displayed their respective strategies. With most of the ball in play, Odisha demonstrated their intention to set the game’s pace. Kickstart FC, on the other hand, chose a more cautious approach, waiting for opportunities to take advantage of their opponents on the counter.
Even though Odisha had the upper hand early on, Kickstart had the best chance of the first half in the tenth minute. Karishma Purushottam Shirvoikar was in a favorable position when she struck the post with her close-range shot. The close miss gave Odisha FC a wake-up call, as Pyari Xaxa scored a goal from outside the box a few minutes later.
Odisha persisted in advancing, generating multiple opportunities to end the impasse. Win Theingi Tun had a chance to score in the 20th minute, but Kickstart’s goalkeeper Maibam Linthoingambi Devi made a spectacular save to keep it out.
Second Half Intensity:
With a goal of securing a decisive advantage, Odisha FC continued to attack throughout the second half. The Odisha attackers were frustrated as Kickstart FC’s defense stood firm in the face of their unwavering efforts. When Odisha coach Crispin Chetteri was dismissed in the 62nd minute for kicking the ball out of frustration, the annoyance reached a breaking point.
Odisha’s attacks were more creative and controlled throughout the second half, but Kickstart’s unwavering defense foiled every effort. The defensive lineup held strong against Odisha’s offensive assault, helped by Linthoingambi Devi’s outstanding saves. It was clear that the two teams were engaged in a tactical struggle, with Kickstart patiently taking the pressure and Odisha frantically looking for a breakthrough.
Conclusion:
The eagerly awaited match between Odisha FC and Kickstart FC ultimately resulted in a hard-fought goalless draw. Despite losing their opening point of the season, the outcome kept Odisha atop the standings with 16 points from six games. With 14 points from six games, Kickstart was still right behind them in second place.
With Kickstart FC’s disciplined defensive strategy and Odisha’s possession-based approach, the match showcased the two teams’ divergent playing styles. The intensity of the game was encapsulated by both sides’ strong defensive performances and missed opportunities.
The ramifications of this draw will surely influence the futures of Odisha and Kickstart as the Indian Women’s League 2023–24 season goes on. The tenacity of Kickstart’s defense and the inventiveness of Odisha’s attack indicate that an exciting journey toward the Indian Women’s League championship lies ahead.
Kickstart FC Starting XI
Maibam Linthoingambi Devi (GK), Wangkhem Linthoingambi, Jabamani Tudu, Yumlembam Pakpi Devi, Supriya Routray, Karishma Purushottam Shirvoikar, Sabina Khatun, Preeti Rai, Sonia Marak, Dalima Chhibber (C), Aruna Bag
Odisha FC Starting XI
Shreya Hooda (GK), Sanju Yadav, Astam Oraon, Win Theingi Tun, S Lynda Kom, Pyari Xaxa, Grace Lalrampari Hauhnar, Indumathi Kathiresan (C), Juli Kishan, Karthika Angamuthu, Manisa Panna
