In a thrilling encounter at the Bhubaneshwar Football Academy stadium on Wednesday, November 10, 2024, Pyari Xaxa’s last-minute goal secured a hard-fought victory for Odisha FC against HOPS FC in the ongoing Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2023-24 season. The win solidified Odisha’s position at the top of the league table, boasting a perfect record of four wins in four matches, with an impressive clean sheet.
Despite the narrow score line, OFC showcased their dominance throughout the match, maintaining a staggering eighty percent of ball possession. However, the team’s coach, Crispin Chettri, expressed concerns over the frontline’s efficiency, as they managed to convert only one of their twelve shots on target.
Anshika, the goalkeeper for HOPS, emerged as a standout performer, making crucial saves that kept the match closely contested until the final whistle. The resilience displayed by HOPS’s shot-stopper prevented Odisha from extending their lead further.
The hero of the match for Odisha FC was Astam Oraon, who exhibited relentless effort throughout the game. Oraon not only created numerous chances in the final third but also played a crucial role in the decisive goal. It was her precise pass to Win Theingi Tun, who then delivered a perfect cross to Pyari Xaxa for an easy header, securing the crucial victory for Odisha. Oraon’s defensive prowess was equally impressive, successfully thwarting the threats posed by Gladys Amfobea for the entire duration of the match.
The match kicked off with OFC setting a blistering pace, launching two efforts within the opening two minutes. The team’s early intent indicated a clear message to potential title contenders, such as Gokulam Kerala and Kickstart FC. Odisha came close to taking an early lead when Win Theingi Tun’s shot hit the post in the seventh minute, keeping HOPS on edge. Despite numerous opportunities to extend their lead in both halves, Odisha faced stiff resistance from Anshika, who showcased brilliance between the goalposts.
Maintaining their perfect record, Odisha FC sits comfortably atop the IWL table with twelve points. In contrast, HOPS FC has struggled to find consistent form, managing only three points from four matches and currently occupying the sixth position in the league standings.
As the IWL 2023-24 season progresses, OFC remains the team to beat, with their dominant performances reflecting their championship aspirations. While acknowledging the importance of the victory, coach Crispin Chettri will undoubtedly be working with the frontline to improve their finishing and convert more opportunities in future encounters.
As the league unfolds, fans can expect more exciting and closely contested matches, with teams vying for supremacy and a shot at the coveted IWL title. Odisha FC’s journey towards glory continues, and their rivals will need to step up their game to challenge the reigning leaders in the race for the championship.
Odisha FC Starting XI
Shreya, Astam, Manisa, Juli, Sanju, Grace, Indumathi (C), Karthika, Pyari, Lynda, Win
HOPS FC Starting XI
Anshika, Ritu, Mamta, Varshika, Shailja, Gladys (C), Rebecca, Lhingnei, Fredrica, Neha, Pooja
