Kalinga Super Cup: Bengaluru FC seek win, FC Goa and Odisha FC tussle in decider
The outcome of the clash between Odisha FC and FC Goa will determine the last team to advance to the Super Cup semifinal.
Indian Super League (ISL) side Bengaluru FC will aim to conclude their Kalinga Super Cup campaign on a triumphant note as they prepare to face off against Inter Kashi at the Kalinga Stadium Pitch 1 in Bhubaneswar on Monday.
Both Bengaluru FC and Inter Kashi find themselves regrettably out of contention for the highly sought-after semi-final spot, having encountered setbacks in their initial two matches in Group D. Nonetheless, both sides will remain resolute in their aim to salvage pride and leave a lasting impression as they brace for their final group clash.
Bengaluru FC will be eager to rectify their previous missteps, suffering narrow defeats at the hands of formidable opponents Odisha FC and FC Goa. Their encounter with the Kalinga Warriors saw them succumb to a solitary goal, courtesy of Ahmed Jahouh's free-kick. The Blues displayed resilience in their subsequent match against FC Goa, holding their ground until the dying moments of regulation time. Unfortunately, they conceded in injury time, with Brison Fernandes finding the back of the net.
Our final clash in the #KalingaSuperCup. ⚔️
— Bengaluru FC (@bengalurufc) January 21, 2024
Let's finish on a high! 👊🏼#BFCIK #WeAreBFC #Santhoshakke pic.twitter.com/9ae680DFMN
Despite the setbacks, Bengaluru FC's defensive fortitude has shone through, conceding a mere two goals in their campaign. Notably, only three teams across the four groups in the tournament have conceded fewer than two goals. However, the absence of key players, including Sunil Chhetri and the departure of Curtis Main, has left their offensive capabilities diminished.
As they approach their final group fixture, Bengaluru FC will remain optimistic going by their recent performance. With a strong defensive record to build upon, head coach Zaragoza will be hopeful that his side can provide the fans with a compelling display, injecting a sense of cheer despite falling short of qualification for the knockout stages.
The stage is set for an intriguing clash, where Bengaluru FC will aim to sign off from the Kalinga Super Cup with a victory,
The game will kick off at 2:30 PM IST. The match will be streamed LIVE on Jio Cinema.
Semi-final berth at stake as FC Goa face Odisha FC
In the eagerly anticipated clash set for Monday, FC Goa and Odisha FC are poised to engage in a battle for a coveted spot in the semi-finals. The showdown is scheduled to unfold at the Kalinga Stadium Main Pitch in Bhubaneswar, promising football enthusiasts a thrilling encounter.
Also Read: Kalinga Super Cup: Qualification scenarios for Group D explained
Odisha FC has demonstrated prowess in their title defence campaign during the ongoing tournament, securing victories in both of their initial two matches. Their triumphs include a hard-fought win against Bengaluru FC and a commanding performance against Inter Kashi. Scoring four goals across these encounters, they currently top their group standings. Adding to their advantage, Sergio Lobera's side boasts a superior goal difference compared to FC Goa. Consequently, even a draw in the upcoming match would propel them into the semi-finals.
The Gaurs stand in our way for a semi-final spot. Tomorrow we bring the fight to the Kalinga! 👊🏻😤
— Odisha FC (@OdishaFC) January 21, 2024
Watch the game live on JioCinema ▶️#OdishaFC #AmaTeamAmaGame #KalingaWarriors #OFCFCG #KalingaSuperCup pic.twitter.com/NBVBvx0H3Y
On the opposing front, FC Goa has also clinched victories in their opening fixtures but not without challenges. Late goals against Inter Kashi and Bengaluru FC were instrumental in securing crucial three points for Manolo Marquez's side. Despite the tough contests, FC Goa has demonstrated resilience in finding ways to win. However, the upcoming match against Odisha FC presents a formidable challenge.
2 Former Super Cup Winners 🏆
— FC Goa (@FCGoaOfficial) January 21, 2024
1 semi-final spot 🎯
Save the date 🗓#FCGOFC #KalingaSuperCup pic.twitter.com/AJhcMSyJEx
The Kalinga Warriors hold a dual advantage in their favour, with the home-ground factor and an impressive defensive record. Having kept clean sheets in their first two matches, they stand as the only side in the tournament to achieve such a feat. This defensive solidity adds an extra layer of challenge for FC Goa.
Nevertheless, FC Goa will draw confidence from their past victory against Odisha FC in the ISL 2023-24 season. In a remarkable display, the Gaurs staged a comeback to secure three points against their opponents at home. The unbeaten streak since the commencement of the league will further fortify their resolve to continue this impressive run.
Fans can expect an enthralling contest between two determined sides vying for a coveted spot in the semi-finals.
The game will kick off at 7:30 PM IST. The match will be streamed LIVE on Jio Cinema.