Indian Super League 2024-25: Odisha FC Battle Back to Draw 1-1 with Punjab FC

Odisha FC held Punjab FC to a 1-1 draw in the Indian Super League 2024-25 at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Monday, despite playing with 10 men.

First-Half Action: Punjab Takes the Lead

The game changed in the 44th minute when the referee sent off Rahul KP. As a result, Punjab FC quickly took advantage. Petros Giakoumakis scored just before halftime, putting Punjab FC ahead. However, Odisha FC fought back in the second half. Eventually, Isak Vanlalruatfela equalized, securing a crucial point for his team, according to an ISL press release.

Playoff Race Heats Up

Meanwhile, both teams remain in the playoff race. Odisha FC ranks seventh with 26 points. On the other hand, Punjab FC sits ninth with 24 points. To add perspective, NorthEast United FC holds the sixth spot with 29 points.

Punjab FC Starts Strong

Right from the start, Punjab FC showed intent. Ezequiel Vidal found space and created chances. First, he delivered a precise corner to Ivan Novoselec, but Odisha FC blocked the attempt. Later, Vidal’s cross set up Giakoumakis, who headed it past Odisha’s goalkeeper Amrinder Singh. Nevertheless, the assistant referee ruled it offside.

Odisha FC Focuses on Possession

Meanwhile, Odisha FC focused on possession and worked through Punjab FC’s high press. In the 20th minute, Isak Vanlalruatfela chipped a pass to Hugo Boumous, but the Frenchman was slightly offside. Shortly after, in the 26th minute, Odisha FC lost possession in midfield. Filip Mrzljak intercepted and sprinted forward. Instead of shooting, he passed to Vidal, and the chance slipped away.

Odisha FC Reduced to 10 Men

Soon after, the match took a dramatic turn when Odisha FC went down to 10 men. Rahul KP fouled Mrzljak, and the referee immediately showed a red card. Consequently, Punjab FC took advantage. Ricky Shabong sent a through ball to Giakoumakis, who finished clinically into the top corner in stoppage time (45+2’).

Second-Half Fightback

At halftime, Odisha FC coach Sergio Lobera brought in Rahim Ali. Despite their disadvantage, Odisha FC pressed forward. Eventually, their efforts paid off in the 52nd minute. Isak and Diego Mauricio combined, and Isak took a shot. Surprisingly, Punjab FC’s goalkeeper Ravi Kumar fumbled, and the ball crossed the goal line for the equalizer.

Tactical Changes from Punjab FC

In the 64th minute, Punjab FC coach Panagiotis Dilmperis made key changes. He substituted Luka Majcen, Asmir Suljic, and Asish Pradhan for Giakoumakis, Vidal, and Suresh Meetei. As a result, Majcen threatened Odisha FC’s defense with his runs, while Suljic controlled the midfield.

Punjab FC’s Missed Opportunities

Despite Punjab FC dominating possession, they struggled in the final third. Then, in the 88th minute, Mrzljak hit the post. Majcen tried to score from the rebound, but Rahim Ali deflected the shot, keeping the score level.

Late Drama and Final Whistle

Finally, in stoppage time, Odisha FC almost clinched the win. Isak set up Boumous in the box. The Frenchman’s shot forced a brilliant save from Ravi Kumar, who redeemed himself after his earlier mistake.

Ultimately, both teams settled for a draw. They remain in the playoff race as they prepare for the upcoming matches.