Odisha FC to face Central Coast Mariners in AFC Cup Inter-Zonal semis

Central Coast Mariners defeated Macarthur to reach the AFC Cup Inter-Zonal semi-final.

A-League team Central Coast Mariners FC, have successfully advanced to the inter-zonal semi-final round of the AFC Cup 2023-24 where they will compete against Indian club Odisha FC.

In the recently concluded Zonal Final match, Central Coast Mariners FC emerged victorious over Macarthur FC with a score of 3-2 at Campbelltown Sports Stadium. The match remained goalless until the 80th minute of play. However, in the 81st minute, Angel Torres secured the first goal for Central Coast Mariners, granting them a lead in the match. In response, Ulises Davila netted the equalizer in the 88th minute, leading the match into extra-time.

At the commencement of extra-time, Macarthur seized an early advantage through a goal from Lachlan Rose in the 92nd minute, whereas Mikael Doka netted the second goal for the Mariners in the 105+3rd minute. As the match approached a penalty shootout, Ronald Barcellos struck at the 120th minute, aiding his team Central Coast Mariners FC in clinching a pivotal victory in the AFC Cup and progressing to the next phase, where they are set to encounter Odisha FC.

Odisha FC will meet Australia's Central Coast Mariners in the AFC Cup Inter-Zone semis! 🤩#IndianFootball #AFCCup #OdishaFC #OFC pic.twitter.com/5yQ0QaoMUA

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) February 22, 2024

On the contrary, Odisha FC had advanced to the inter-zonal semi-final round after clinching the top spot in their group. Both Odisha FC and Central Coast Mariners FC are set to compete in a two-legged fixture. The first match is set for March 7, 2024, with the second match scheduled for March 14, 2024.

During the group stage fixtures, Central Coast Mariners FC were engulfed in Group G, ultimately emerging as the group leader with 13 points from six matches. Subsequently, they encountered Phnom Penh Crown in the Zonal semi-final round, triumphing with a 4-0 victory and securing their place in the Zonal Final. Notably, Ryan Edmondson has distinguished himself as their top scorer, contributing three goals for his team.

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