The second semi-final of the Hero Super Cup 2023 will witness a battle between two clubs who have made their way into the knockouts after impressive performances under their interim head coaches.

Odisha FC, under the leadership of Clifford Miranda, are yet to face a defeat in the tournament so far. Meanwhile, Floyd Pinto’s NorthEast United FC have made it to the semi-finals despite facing a defeat in the opening game of the tournament.

Odisha FC, who qualified for the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) playoffs, will look to go all the way this time around while NorthEast United FC will be aiming to end their season on a high after a dismal Hero ISL campaign, making it a fascinating contest for the neutrals. 

Form Guide

Odisha FC - LLDWW

The Kalinga Warriors began their campaign with a 1-1 draw against East Bengal FC before securing back-to-back wins over Aizawl FC and Hyderabad FC. In their final group game against Hyderabad FC, Miranda’s side came back from a goal down to secure a 2-1 win and made their way into the semi-finals.

NorthEast United FC - LLLWW

NorthEast United FC ended the Hero ISL 2022-23 campaign with just one win across 20 games. But after falling to a defeat against Chennaiyin FC in their Hero Super Cup opener, the Highlanders registered two wins on the spin against Mumbai City FC and Churchill Brothers FC. They finished level on points with Mumbai City FC, but made it through on the back of a superior goal difference.

Head-to-Head record

The two sides have faced each other on eight occasions in the Hero ISL, with Odisha FC winning five of these clashes. NorthEast United FC, on the other hand, have only won two games. However, the Kalinga Warriors have done the double over the Highlanders for the past two seasons.

Key Players

Odisha FC:

Diego Mauricio

The Brazilian has been Odisha FC’s joint-leading goalscorer in the tournament, with two goals to his name. The Hero ISL Golden Boot winner has had a goal contribution in all of Odisha FC’s Hero Super Cup games and will be hoping to do more of the same on Saturday.

Victor Rodriguez

Rodriguez has featured in the playing eleven in all of Odisha FC’s Hero Super Cup games so far and has as many goals as Mauricio. Following a Hero ISL season that was hampered by injury, the Spaniard has regained full fitness and is showing his true potential. The Spaniard has been the link between their defence and attack and has provided stability in the middle of the park.

NorthEast United FC:

Jordan Wilmar Gil

The Colombian has been the leading goalscorer of the Hero Super Cup with six goals to his name. Gil netted four goals during his side’s 6-3 win over Churchill Brothers FC, showing how ruthless he can be. The striker has been one of NorthEast United FC’s key players since joining the club in January and will be looking forward to continuing his fine form.

Jithin MS

Capable of playing across positions in attack, Kerala boy Jithin MS will look to score for a second game running. With his ability to supply defence-splitting passes and dribble past players, Jithin MS will be one to watch out for in the semi-finals.

Match timings and Telecast details

Date: April 22, 2023

Venue: Payyanad Stadium, Manjeri, Kerala

Kick-off time: 7:00 pm IST

Telecast: Sony Sports Network

Online Streaming: FanCode