AFC Cup: Bottom-placed Odisha FC aim for first points against Maziya S&RC

Odisha FC are at the bottom of the Group D table in the AFC Cup

After experiencing two consecutive defeats, Odisha FC will be aiming to secure their maiden victory in the AFC Cup when they confront the Maldivian team, Maziya S&RC, on Tuesday.

The Juggernauts have already played two matches in the AFC Cup 2023-204, one at their home ground and the other at Kings Arena Dhaka. Unfortunately, both outings proved to be a disappointing experience for the Indian club.

The Stakes

Odisha FC

Odisha FC experienced a defeat not only in their recent AFC Cup match but also in their last encounter against FC Goa in the ISL fixture. Despite putting up a strong fight in both the games, they unfortunately had to concede the victory to their opponents.

They will undoubtedly arrive with the clear objective of securing a victory in the upcoming game, in the presence of their devoted home supporters who will be there to cheer on their team.

Maziya S&RC

Maziya S&RC are set to take the field following a defeat to Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their most recent encounter in the AFC Cup 2023-24. The team suffered a 2-1 loss against the Mariners. However, they have a victory under their belt, as they emerged triumphant in their first league match against Bashundhara Kings.

Although they will be playing an away game, they will aim to establish an early lead and secure valuable points by the end of the match.

Injury & Team News

There are no injury concerns in either of the teams. Both teams have a complete squad and intend to utilize their best players in the upcoming game.

Head-to-Head

This will mark the initial meeting between the two teams. However, they will once again cross paths on November 7th, 2023.

Predicted Line-ups

Odisha FC

Amrinder Singh (GK), Amey Ranawade, Carlos Delgado, Mourtada Fall, Sahil Panwar, Ahmed Jahouh, Princeton Rebello, Jerry Mawihmingthanga, Cy Goddard, Diego Mauricio, Roy Krishna

Maziya S&RC

Hussain Shareef (GK), Shifaz Hassan, Branimir Jocic, Sebastijan Antic, Khalil Gamal, Tomoki Wada, Obeng Regan, Ibrahim Aisham, Hassan Raif, Vojislav Balabanović, Hamza Mohamed.

Players to watch

Diego Mauricio (Odisha FC)

Diego has consistently proven to be the top striker for Odisha FC in recent times. This is evident not only in the Indian Super League (ISL) but also in the last AFC Cup fixture where he showcased his exceptional skills. His performance established him as the Juggernaut's first goal-scorer in the AFC Cup. The team greatly relies on Diego's abilities to make a significant impact in the upcoming game.

Obeng Regan (Maziya S&RC)

Obeng has consistently been the most active player for Maziya S&RC. He plays a crucial role in both their defensive stability and their attacking endeavours. Obeng's exceptional ball distribution skills greatly contribute to the team's overall game strategy and effectiveness.

Did You Know?

• Odisha FC are yet to secure a victory in the AFC Cup as this marks their inaugural season.
• Odisha FC are placed at four in the points table of Group D
• Maziya S&RC are placed second in the group with a win and a loss from their last two outings.

Telecast

The match between Odisha FC and Maziya S&RC will be played at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, on October 24, 2023 (Tuesday) at 5:30 PM IST. The match will be telecasted on Sports18 channel and live-streamed on Fancode and JioTV.