In a compelling showdown on Monday, Odisha FC showcased their prowess by overpowering reigning ISL champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant with a resounding 5-2 triumph in the penultimate Group D clash of the AFC Cup in Kolkata. The legacy club’s fans were left dismayed as their team faced a crushing defeat on home turf.
The match began with a promising lead for Mohun Bagan, as Hugo Boumous found the net in the 17th minute. However, Odisha FC responded swiftly, turning the tide with three rapid-fire goals from Roy Krishna (29′), Diego Mauricio (32′), and Cy Goddard (41′). The visitors’ attacking onslaught left the hosts reeling and struggling to regain control.
As the second half unfolded, Odisha FC continued to dominate. Kamalpreet Singh (80′) and Pranjal Bhumij (83′) extended the lead, putting the result beyond doubt. Despite Mohun Bagan’s spirited efforts, substitute Kiyan Nassiri’s headed goal in the 63rd minute offered only a fleeting glimmer of hope.
The hosts created several opportunities in the latter stages of the game, with Liston Colaco’s free-kick striking the crossbar and Sahal Samad’s effort narrowly missing the target. However, Mohun Bagan failed to capitalize on these chances, and Odisha FC capitalized on the counter.
In the dying minutes, Odisha FC sealed their emphatic victory with two additional goals during injury time. Aniket Jadhav (90+2) and Isak Vanlalruatfela capitalized on defensive lapses, completing the humiliation for Mohun Bagan.
The comprehensive win propelled Odisha FC within a point of table-toppers Bashundhara Kings of Bangladesh. This triumph served as redemption for Odisha, avenging their earlier 0-4 defeat to Mohun Bagan in September.
Adding to Mohun Bagan’s woes was the absence of four key playersâDimitri Petratos, Anwar Ali, Manvir Singh, and Ashique Kuruniyanâwho watched from the sidelines due to injuries.
Looking ahead, Odisha FC is now poised for a crucial clash against Bashundhara Kings on Matchday Six, with a win needed to secure advancement to the knockout rounds. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan faces a challenging away fixture against Maziya Sports & Recreation in the Maldives.
