ISL 2023-24: Punjab FC vs Odisha FC | Preview, Predicted lineup, injury news, H2H, telecast details

Odisha FC is undefeated in their last six matches.

Punjab FC & Odisha FC are scheduled to compete in their upcoming Indian Super League match on the 26th of December at the Jawaharlal Stadium in New Delhi.

Both teams will aim to conclude the year on a positive note. While Odisha has another match scheduled this year, Punjab FC will play its final scheduled match before the commencement of the Super Cup next year.

Punjab FC secured their first win in the tournament by triumphing over Chennaiyin FC with a 1-0 scoreline in their recent match, whereas Odisha FC concluded their last match with a draw against East Bengal.

The Stakes 

Punjab FC 

The Punjab team has experienced a challenging season in the Indian Super League, securing only one victory so far. This outcome is a matter of significant concern for Staikos Vergetis. Despite this, Odisha has been performing well, and the home team will strive to capitalize on the home advantage and secure their second win of the season.

Odisha FC 

Odisha FC has had an outstanding performance this season, currently holding the fifth position in the points table. However, coach Sergio Lobera appears somewhat dissatisfied with the team’s display in their recent match against East Bengal, which concluded in a draw. He is focused on securing victory by effectively capitalizing on every opportunity on the field.

Injury and Team News 

Apart from Puitea’s suspension there is no there concern for Odisha FC even with injuries. Punjab will take the field with full squad.

Head-to-Head

This will mark the inaugural encounter between the two teams in any league or tournament. It is noteworthy that Punjab has joined the ISL after being promoted from the 2022-23 I-League.

Predicted Line-ups

Punjab FC

Kiran Chemjong (GK), K Lhungdim, Suresh Meitei, Dimitros Chatziisaias, Nitesh Darjee; Prashant K, Ashis Pradhan, Nikhil Prabhu, Krishnananda Singh; Jordan Wilmar Gil, Luka Majcen.

Odisha FC

Amrinder Singh (GK), Amey Ranawade, Narender Gahlot, Carlos Delgado, Jerry Lalrinzuala, Jerry Mawihmingthanga, Ahmed Jahouh, CY Goddard, Princeton Rebello, Isak Vanlalruatfela, Roy Krishna.

Players to watch

Madih Talal 

Talal played a pivotal role in the recent victory of Punjab over Chennaiyin, securing the win with a goal. His performance has established him as a potential threat to Odisha FC in the upcoming match. Additionally, his proficiency in winning duels and delivering crucial passes in the attacking third further strengthens his impact on the game.

Jerry Mawihmingthanga

Jerry has been compelled to lead the attack for Odisha FC. The youthful striker has netted two goals this season and provided an assist. His rapid sprints along the forward line, adept at dissecting the defense, pose a consistent threat to the opposition, keeping him actively involved in the game.

Did You Know?

• Ahmed Jahouh has the most number of successful passes this season i.e. 563. 

• Roy Krishna is top scorer for Odisha FC with four goals and Luka Majcen is for Punjab with three goals to their name. 

• Odisha FC is undefeated in their last six matches. 

Telecast

The Punjab FC vs Odisha FC game kicks off at 8:00 PM IST, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on 26th December. Live telecast of the fixture will be available on the Sports18 Network (Sports18 1/VH1 Channel). Live streaming of the game will be available on the JioCinema app. Viewers from abroad can use OneFootball to stream the game.

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