Carlos Delgado extends contract at Odisha FC

The centre-back is the captain of the side.

32-year-old centre-back Carlos Delgado has extended his contract with Odisha FC till 2024. Delgado has played all the matches for Odisha FC (19) and is placed sixth on the interception list (34). He is closely followed by teammate Saul Crespo who has made 33 interceptions in 16 matches. This is the Spaniards' second stint with Odisha FC.

After his first stint at Odisha FC, the defender played for CD Athletico Baleares in the Primera Division Castellon. He made 39 appearances, scoring one goal. After Joseph Gombau was reappointed as the coach in the ISL 2022-23 season, Carlos was once again brought back into the club and was made the captain. Odisha FC have performed well under his leadership and are currently in the sixth spot with 30 points (with one game in hand).

Overall, Carlos Delgado has led the team well and the management in return has rewarded the Spaniard with a contract extension.

Odisha FC in ISL 2022-23

A win in the final league game will ensure Odisha FC’s maiden appearance in the playoffs. The Juggernauts had finished in sixth, eleventh, and seventh spots in the last three seasons and failed to qualify for the playoffs. The format for ISL 2022-23 was changed and a total of six teams were allowed to qualify. Five teams have already attained the qualification mark and the fight for the final spot is currently between Odisha FC and FC Goa.

If Odisha FC win the final league game then they automatically qualify and can even finish inside the top-four (provided other results go in their favour).

Winger Nandhakumar Sekar has scored six goals in 18 matches this season making him one of the most valuable players. He has been with the squad for the past few seasons but this year it has been his breakthrough season.