Durand Cup 2022: Odisha FC defeated Sudeva Delhi FC 3-0 in a Group D match on Monday at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati to extend their winning streak to three games.
Odisha FC secured a clean sheet and advanced to the Durand Cup quarterfinals. Thanks to three goals in the first half, including braces from Saul Crespo (19’ and 38’) and Jerry Mawihmingthanga (40’).
The Kalinga Warriors were superior from the beginning of the game. Their first significant opportunity came from Jerry Mawihmingthanga, who sent a cross for Diego Mauricio. Though, his header was saved by goalkeeper Kabir Kohli at close range.
Saul Crespo soon earned his reward and gave his team the lead as he positioned himself in between the defenders to meet Sahil Panwar’s cross and head in the game’s first goal.
The Odisha FC defence stood solid and blocked the shot right away, but Sudeva Delhi got themselves moving when a missed pass by Narender Gahlot sent their midfielders on the run.
With yet another header when he was still between the defender’s lines, Saul Crespo increased his team’s advantage after a Raynier Fernandes cross.
Jerry Mawihmingthanga scored the third goal of the game with a straightforward tap-in following a rebound save by Kabir Kohli to make it 3-0 for Odisha FC.
The second half was dominated by Josep Gombau’s team because of their numerous offensive openings. After Raynier cut past two players and pummelling one right over the far post with a cross, Nandakumar Sekar had a fantastic opportunity to score from the outside of the goal.
Akbar’s strong drive from the left side gave Sudeva Delhi their first significant opportunity of the game, but Odisha FC goalkeeper Ralte stepped up to the challenge and deflected Akbar’s attempt over the crossbar.
Odisha’s attacking trio had a good connection as the team continued to slink in behind the defence and create several chances, but Pedro and Isaac’s two consecutive attempts at goal were unsuccessful.
In the final seconds of the game, Sudeva Delhi had more possession of the ball, but they were unable to take advantage of their opportunities due to an impenetrable Odisha FC defence.
On September 4, Army Green will host Josep Gombau’s team in their last group-stage match of Durand Cup, while Sudeva Delhi FC will face NorthEast United FC two days earlier.
Also Read: Durand Cup: Mumbai City FC moves to the quarterfinals with a 5-1 victory over Rajasthan United FC
