Odisha FC assistant coach Anthony Fernandes reflected on his team’s missed opportunities and defensive errors after their 3-2 defeat to NorthEast United FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25. Despite creating ample chances, Odisha struggled to convert, allowing NorthEast United to capitalise and secure victory.

Despite trailing 2-0 by the 40th minute, with both goals scored by Alaeddine Ajaraie, Odisha FC fought back. Hugo Boumous pulled one back in the 60th minute, igniting hopes of a comeback. NorthEast United FC extended their lead in the 73rd minute through Guillermo Fernández, but Odisha FC continued to press, and Diego Maurício found the net in the 83rd minute.

Fernandes addressed the team’s problems with converting chances in the post-match press conference, explaining, “I should say that it is not a major concern, but for us as an attacking team, creating is more important than just being there."

"We are creating chances but not finishing them. We are trying to implement that even in training, but everything comes down to the matches… today we had lots of chances to finish or at least equalise. But overall, we are scoring all the time. I think, more importantly, the way we are conceding goals is what is affecting us because we scored two goals today," he added.

Match Report: NorthEast United FC 3-2 Odisha FC

Speaking on the absence of midfielder Ahmed Jahouh who was suspended for the match after his red card in the match against Mumbai City FC, he noted, “For us, Jahouh is one of the mainstays in the midfield. It was evident in the way we started the first half; it took some time for the team to settle down their nerves and give their best."

"We missed him, but we as a team have a very good squad. Some players get those chances and need to take them whenever they are given. When you have the full squad, it’s a different story, but if you miss someone for suspension, it’s beyond your control," he added.

The game saw a slow start for Odisha FC and Fernades emphasised this by saying “We did not start well, but the way we bounced back in the second half showed we as a team can do better things. One of the problems we’re facing is giving away easy goals, so when we create chances, we need to be clinical and make it count when we’re in front of the goal,” he added.

With seven goals from six appearances, Alaaeddine Ajaraie became a noteworthy player in the league and Fernandes highlighted this collective quality of the opposition. “Allaaeddine is a good player; we all know what he possesses. We had our plans, but they scored through a second goal in the set-piece, one of our mistakes. It’s not about focusing on one player. There’s Nestor (Albiach) and Jithin MS who are equally as good. We prepared as much as we could to tactically hold them, but again, Allaaeddine is a guy with very good talent. Sometimes he succeeds in things,” he said

Odisha FC will look to improve on both ends of the pitch as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures against Mohun Bagan on 10 November.