AFC Cup: Maziya, Odisha FC to lock horns with win in mind

Both teams currently have three points in group stage

Odisha FC finds itself back in continental action with their next AFC Cup fixture to take place on 7th Nov 2023 in Maldives against Maziya S&RC. The Group D fixture will have huge implications for either side as they hope to secure three points and fight for the one available qualification spot.

The previous encounter between Maziya S&RC and Odisha FC saw seven goals but the Indian Super League outfit dominated the game by scoring six of them. However, with the former playing at home, things could be different this time around. Fans of the club from the Maldives expect it to give a good account of themselves and shock the Kalinga Warriors by extracting revenge for the heavy defeat.

As both teams prepare for the AFC Cup contest, here is what to expect from the fixture:

The Stakes

Maziya S&RC began their AFC Cup campaign in style, with a 3-1 win over Bashundhara Kings. However, two defeats in subsequent matches, both against ISL teams, have thrown their campaign off track. Failing to win the clash with Odisha will put immense pressure on the side and may see them out of contention for the top spot in Group D. Therefore, winning the game becomes a top priority for the hosts.

Odisha FC are in the same boat as their next opponents. The side has only three points from as many group fixtures and must win to stay in contention for the top spot. Their ISL rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant are sitting comfortably in the qualification spot with seven points. Securing three points will be the objective and the outfit will also be hoping that the Mariners fail to win their AFC Cup fixture against Bashundhara Kings.

Injury & Team News

Both teams have fully fit squads with no suspensions

Head to Head

Total Matches Played - 1

Maziya S&RC wins - 0

Odisha FC wins - 1

Draws - 0

Probable Lineups

Maziya S&RC (4-4-2)

Hussain Shareef (GK), Ali Samooh, Branimir Jocic, Sebastijan Antic, Khalil Elbezawy, Hassan Ahmed, Obeng Regan, Ibrahim Aisham, Hamza Mohamed, Hassan Naiz, Tomoki Wada

Odisha FC (4-2-3-1)

Amrinder Singh (GK), Amey Ranawade, Mourtada Fall, Carlos Delgado, Jerry Lalrinzuala, Isak Vanlalruatfela, Ahmed Jahouh, Roy Krishna, Aniket Jadhav, Cy Goddard, Diego Mauricio.

Player to Watch

Tomoki Wada (Maziya S&RC)

Tomoki Wada is part of the two-man forward line commonly used by Maziya S&RC. The forward from Japan can be a dangerous player to contain owing to his technical quality and pace. He has a knack for combining with his midfielders and aid in build-up play as well. The 29-year-old scored against Mohun Bagan SG earlier in the AFC Cup as well.

Mourtada Fall (Odisha FC)

Mourtada Fall was superb for Odisha FC in the reverse fixture. He starred with a brilliant brace and defended well during the game. The centre-back is a constant threat with his aerial ability during corner kick situations. It will be a pain for the Maziya S&RC defenders to keep him contained once again when the two sides meet.

Did You Know?

• Tomoki Wada was part of Vissel Kobe’s developmental squads in Japan.
• Odisha FC’s Roy Krishna is the fourth-highest goalscorer in the history of ISL (43).
• Milomir Seslija, head coach of Maziya, has won only one trophy as a manager - the Indonesian League Cup in 2019 with Arema FC. 

Telecast

The AFC Cup game between Maziya S&RC and Odisha FC will be live-streamed on Fancode app from the Maldives National Football Stadium from 3:30 p.m. (IST) on 7th November, 2023 (Tuesday). Live telecast of the fixture will be available on Sports18 Network.