Odisha FC made history in the Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2023-24 season, culminating in a spectacular 6-0 triumph over Kickstart FC at the iconic Kalinga Stadium on March 24, 2024. This victory marked a watershed moment for the team, securing their maiden title in emphatic fashion. Let’s delve into the remarkable journey of Odisha FC and their stellar performance in the championship match.
Table of Contents
Dominance Displayed:
From the outset, Odisha FC showcased their dominance on the lush green turf, led by a formidable lineup of National Team stars. The first half of the match saw them surging ahead with a commanding 3-0 lead, setting the stage for an awe-inspiring display of skill and determination.
Key Players Shine:
Former India U17 captain, Lynda Kom, emerged as the standout performer of the day, delivering a stunning hat-trick to propel her team to victory. Pyari Xaxa also made significant contributions with a brace, while Karthika Angamuthu’s remarkable strike added to the spectacle. The synergy between Lynda and Pyari was particularly noteworthy, as they orchestrated a flurry of goals within a span of 22 minutes, leaving Kickstart FC reeling.
Odisha FC’s Unrivaled Performance:
Odisha FC’s dominance extended beyond the championship match, as they concluded the season with an impressive tally of 31 points from 12 matches. This remarkable feat placed them firmly at the top of the league table, leaving their closest rivals, Gokulam Kerala FC, trailing by two points. In contrast, Kickstart FC languished in third place, trailing the champions by a significant margin of 10 points.
Strategic Brilliance:
On the final day of the championship, with two matches being played simultaneously, Odisha FC exhibited strategic acumen and unwavering focus. Recognizing that a mere three points would secure their title aspirations, they approached the match against Kickstart FC with utmost determination. Their early onslaught, resulting in two goals within the first 13 minutes, effectively dismantled any semblance of resistance from the opposition.
Spectacle Unfolds:
The match unfolded as a one-sided affair, as Odisha FC unleashed a relentless offensive onslaught, much to the delight of their fervent supporters. The goal-scoring spree commenced early in the 11th minute, with Lynda Kom capitalizing on a precise pass from Win Theingi Tun to open the scoring. Pyari Xaxa swiftly followed suit, capitalizing on Lynda’s assist to extend the lead. By the 22nd minute mark, Pyari’s second goal had all but shattered Kickstart FC’s resolve.
Second-Half Brilliance:
The second half witnessed a continuation of Odisha FC’s dominance, as they added three more goals to their tally. Lynda Kom’s historic hat-trick solidified her status as a game-changer, while Karthika Angamuthu’s stunning strike from 22 yards showcased the team’s depth and versatility in attack. The relentless pressure exerted by Odisha FC left their opponents struggling to contain the onslaught, culminating in a resounding victory for the champions.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Odisha FC’s triumph in the IWL 2023-24 season stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment, exceptional skill, and strategic prowess. From their commanding performances on the field to their decisive victory in the title-deciding match, they have etched their names in the annals of Indian women’s football history. As they bask in the glory of their maiden championship title, Odisha FC has undoubtedly set a new standard of excellence for women’s football in the country.
