Odisha FC vs NorthEast United: Three key battles to determine Hero Super Cup finalists

These clashes will be entertaining and crucial to the outcome of the fixture.

The 2023 edition of the Hero Super Cup is heading towards its conclusion. Semi-finals are at hand following a fabulous and nervy end to the group stages. One of the two semi-finals will see Indian Super League (ISL) outfits Odisha FC and NorthEast United FC face each other on 22 April 2023 at the Payyanad Stadium, Manjeri in Kerala. 

Both teams had underwhelming campaigns in ISL 2022-23. However, the Hero Super Cup brings a fantastic opportunity for both clubs to end the season with a trophy, which will be a first for both of them. The outfits will hope that their domestic and foreign players can perform well to propel them into the final where they will face the winner of Bengaluru FC versus Jamshedpur FC.

As the semi-final approaches close, here is a look at the three key battles from the fixture.

3. Diego Mauricio vs Ali Kholmurodov

Diego Mauricio is a one-man army and he can make the biggest impact in the upcoming semi-final. The striker scored one and provided another in Odisha FC’s 2-1 win over Hyderabad FC which was enough to ensure them a place in the semis.

NorthEast United’s Ali Kholmurodov is new to the team but is settling quite fast. The centre-back shows composure on the ball and is strong in aerial duels. It will be interesting to see how he deals with Mauricio’s physicality and pace. This duel is going to be a mouth-watering clash.

2. Victor Rodriguez vs Joseba Beitia

The battle of the midfield will see Victor Rodriguez of Odisha and Joseba Beitia of NorthEast United fight it out stamp their authority. Both midfielders are nimble and like to move around to influence their team's movement on the ball in attacking build-ups. 

Whichever midfielder comes out on top will certainly ensure his team has more possession of the ball at the heart of the pitch. Victor Rodriguez is in a rich vein of form, having scored against Hyderabad FC to seal the win. On the other hand, Joseba Beitia is crucial to NEUFC’s attacking gameplay and his composure on the ball is a brilliant quality to have in any situation. 

1. Carlos Delgado vs Wilmar Jordan 

One of the major battles from Odisha FC and NorthEast United FC’s semi-final clash will see Carlos Delgado come up against Wilmar Jordan. The defender will have his hands full dealing with the striker who has six goals in the competition and is a favourite for the golden boot.

Carlos Delgado is a brilliant centre-back who reads the game well and makes important clearances when OFC is on the back foot. However, Jordan is strong and likes to use his physicality to dominate defenders. He also lures them out of position and can open spaces for his teammates. The striker has brilliant target-man qualities that will aid NEUFC in the process of creating scoring chances. Moreover, he is currently the top-scorer of the competition.