Bhubaneswar: The Kalinga Warriors kick off the new year with a highly anticipated clash against FC Goa on Saturday at the Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, following the goalless draw against MDSC in Kolkata last week.
Goa come into the fixture in high spirits, having ended Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s eight-match unbeaten streak with a gritty 2-1 victory at Fatorda. Odisha FC occupy 6th place with 20 points, while FC Goa are in 3rd with 22 points, making this a crucial encounter to stay in the hunt for the play-offs.
The fixture marks a milestone for Odisha FC head coach Sergio Lobera, who's set for his 50th game in charge. It comes against his former team, which adds a layer of intensity to the clash. The Juggernauts will be looking to secure their first ever win against the Gaurs in the ISL. Reflecting on this milestone, Lobera said during the pre-match press conference: “Always special, because finally in football we know everything is moving very quickly. When you have stability, you are doing some time in the same club, that means there is stability and also means you are doing something well.”
Odisha FC will be relieved to have the coach back on the touchline after he missed the previous outing against Mohammedan.
With star midfielder Ahmed Jahouh’s absence leaving a gap in midfield, Lobera addressed the team’s ability to adapt, highlighting the squad’s depth and collective effort. He said: “Jahouh is an important player for us, but all other players are important too. We need to think about how we can build a very competitive squad to compete against every game.”
Lobera confirmed the addition of forward Dorielton, who joins the team as a replacement for the injured Roy Krishna. However, he remained cautious about further transfer activity. “If we can do something in the market to improve the level of the team, it is always good.”
Despite the Mohammedan draw making a top-spot finish unlikely, Lobera reiterated the team’s primary goal: securing a playoff spot. “Our target is to get to the playoffs. We need to be realistic. We cannot lie to the people. Miracles that are not in football. But we are going to fight till the end,” he assured fans.
Captain Amrinder Singh reflected on his role, acknowledging the added responsibility and pressure. He said: “Of course, being the captain adds pressure and I’m very proud to lead this team. My focus is always on my team staying together.”
When asked about the absence of Lobera on the sidelines in the previous match, Amrinder admitted, “It’s a fact because he can see better than us from the line. Of course, we were missing the coach there, but everyone tried to give their best.”
