On Thursday, January 25, 2024, in an exciting Kalinga Super Cup semifinal match, the reigning champions Odisha FC proved they had what it took to defeat Mumbai City FC by a slim 1-0 margin. Odisha FC won the thrilling match, which was rife with drama and intensity. As a result, they advanced to the final, where they will play East Bengal on January 28, 2024.
Mumbai City FC came out firing in the first minute of the game, making it clear they intended to take the lead right away. Jorge Pereyra of Mumbai City almost put the ball in the back of the net with a strong header from a corner in a thrilling second minute. But they were out of luck because the ball hit the inside of the post and sailed out of sight, preventing them from taking an early lead.
Even though Mumbai City dominated the first half of the match, Odisha FC eventually took control of the match. Even though the majority of their goal attempts were speculative long-range shots, the home team almost broke the deadlock with strikes from Roy Krishna and Isak Vanlalruatfela. The crucial moment came just before halftime when Phurba Lachenpa brought down Diego Mauricio of Odisha inside the box, winning Odisha FC a penalty. The home crowd began to celebrate when Mauricio skillfully converted the spot-kick, slotting the ball into the right corner.
Mumbai City FC put on a valiant comeback in the second half, attacking in waves to try and equalise the score. A barrage of opportunities followed, including a noteworthy effort that prompted custodian Lalthuammawia Ralte of Odisha to make a save and a header off a corner that struck the crossbar. Odisha FC, on the other hand, continued to play solid defence and looked for ways to increase their lead through counterattacks.
Mumbai City’s desperation to win the game caused a breakdown in discipline as the game neared its conclusion, which resulted in a barrage of red and yellow cards. Jorge Pereyra and Rostyn Griffiths of Mumbai City were both given straight red cards for violent behaviour in the final seconds of injury time, and Gurkirat Singh was sent off after receiving a second yellow card. Mumbai City FC’s chances were severely hindered by their numerical disadvantage, as they finished the match with just eight players on the pitch, allowing Odisha FC to advance to the Kalinga Super Cup final.
Even with its tense moments and aggressive exchanges, the game demonstrated the tenacity and resolve of both teams in their pursuit of victory. The victory summed up Odisha’s capacity to seize important chances while remaining composed under duress. With their sights set on retaining the Kalinga SC title, Odisha FC is prepared to make history in Indian football history once more as they go into the final matchup against East Bengal with confidence and resolve.
To conclude, the football fans witnessed an exciting show full of drama, tension, and thrilling moments during the semi-final match between Odisha FC and Mumbai City. The aspirations of Odisha’s supporters are with them as they go to the final in the Kalinga Super Cup, hoping to establish their legacy.
Odisha FC Starting XI
L Ralte (GK), Amey, C Delgado, Puitea, Diego, Jahouh, CY Goddard, M Fall (C), Jerry L, Isak Ralte, Roy Krishna
Mumbai City FC
Phurba Lachenpa (GK)(C), Valpuia, Mehtab Singh, Yoell Van Nieff, Nathan Rodrigues, Franklin Nazareth, Vinit Rai, Sanjeev STalin, Gurkrit Singh, Jorge Pereyra Diaz, Ayush Chhikara
