Preview: Odisha FC aim to secure final playoff spot against Jamshedpur FC

The Juggernauts need a solitary point to guarantee a place in the top-six.

Odisha FC are set to host nearby neighbours Jamshedpur FC at the Kalinga Stadium on the 22nd of February, in a game that holds extreme importance for the home team, as they have a real shot at qualifying for the playoffs. They need no more than a single point against the Men of Steel to make their qualification dreams come true.

But this game wouldn’t be a walk in the park for the Juggernauts by any sort as Jamshedpur find themselves in immaculate form, and are actually one of the most confident teams in the league, presently.

With their heads held high, and qualification to aim for, Odisha would be ready for a nail-biting encounter, that wouldn’t be short of drama, and will end up with either bliss and joy, or misfortune and agony.

The Stakes

Odisha FC

Odisha have everything to play for on Wednesday. Having come this far in the tournament with their whole-hearted efforts that has spread across months, a slip up at this stage of the competition would completely break the hearts of the players, the coach, the technical staff and most importantly the devoted fans, who have so long drawn for their team’s qualification into the playoffs.

Wednesday poses the toughest challenge for the Juggernauts, as their opponents are also in a fine run of form having picked up seven points in their past three games. Odisha's mentality would be key against such a strong side, and they will surely be tested until the very end for the feat that they so badly desire.

Jamshedpur FC

Jamshedpur have been the most impressive ISL team for the past 2-3 weeks. The Men of Steel have actually made a statement, and have somewhat restored their lost reputation after a poor season. Aidy’s men have shown that they are a team of true potential, and have also made a bold statement of their presence in the upcoming Super Cup.

The Men of Steel would want to end their season on a high, and would love to pick three points on Wednesday, and crush Odisha’s hearts.

Injury & Team News

Odisha FC have a fully fit side. For Jamshedpur FC, Eli Sabia is suspended.

Head-to-Head

Odisha FC and Jamshedpur FC have faced each other 11 times in the Indian Super League.

Odisha FC – 2

Jamshedpur FC – 7

Drawn – 2

Predicted Line-Ups

Odisha FC (4-3-3)

Amrinder Singh (GK); Shubham Sarangi, Lalruatthara, Carlos Delgado, Denechandra Meitei; Thoiba Singh, Saul Crespo, Raynier Fernandes; Nandhakumar Sekar, Diego Mauricio, Isak Vanlalruatfela.

Jamshedpur FC (4-4-1-1)

Vishal Yadav (GK); Laldinliana Renthlei, Pratik Chaudhari, Dylan Fox, Ricky Lallawmawma; Boris Singh, Pronay Halder, Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, Ritwik Das; Harry Sawyer; Daniel Chima Chukwu.

Player to Watch

Saul Crespo (Odisha FC)

Saul has had a fantastic season with Odisha, and has been the heart of midfield for the same. The player has been crucial defensively for his team as well, and has provided tons of clearances and tackles throughout the season. In the Juggernauts’ last game against NorthEast United as well, the Spaniard was absolutely on point with his passing and progressive play, and would expect to continue his fantastic form going into such a crucial fixture against Jamshedpur.

Pratik Chaudhari (Jamshedpur FC)

Jamshedpur’s star defender Pratik has had a breakthrough season with the Reds, as the player has not only consolidated his position in the backline, but has also sparkled an impressive connection with fellow defender Eli Sabia, putting up an all-round defensive show throughout the season.

But due to Eli’s absence in Wednesday’s game, Pratik will be in charge of Jamshedpur’s defence. He would have a big big responsibility on his back, that is to stop the formidable attacking force of Odisha.

Did You Know?

• Odisha made an incredible 3-2 comeback, the last time these two teams met. Interestingly, that was the first game of this season for both the teams.
• ”We want to go there and get a little bit of revenge”, said Jamshedpur FC head coach Aidy Boothroyd, when he was asked regarding the game.
• If Odisha draw or win against Jamshedpur, the team will qualify for the playoffs for the very first time.

Telecast

The match between Odisha FC and Jamshedpur FC will be played at the Kalinga Stadium in Odisha on Wednesday (22nd February). Kick-off is at 7:30 PM IST. The match will be live-streamed on Disney+ Hotstar and JioTV. Moreover, it will also be telecasted on the Star Sports Network.