ISL 2023-24: Odisha FC vs East Bengal FC: Preview, Predicted Lineup, injury news, H2H, telecast details

Odisha FC haven’t lost in their last 4 games.

Odisha FC currently sits at the top of the table and they will be hungry to increase the points gap of the teams below them as they prepare to face East Bengal in Bhubaneswar on Thursday, 29th February.

East Bengal, in a competitive race to secure a spot in the top six, enters this fixture with a boost of confidence following their recent victory against Chennaiyin FC. This upcoming fixture promises to be an exhilarating clash between two determined teams.

The Stakes

Odisha FC

The Juggernauts are in excellent form and the return of their star player, Ahmed Jahouh, from suspension further strengthens their line-up. Approaching this match with confidence, they aim to capitalize on their opponents’ inconsistency in performance.

With two consecutive draws in their previous outings, the opponents will be the target as the Juggernauts seek to secure all three points, leveraging the advantage of playing on their home ground.

East Bengal FC

Presently positioned in 8th place with 18 points, the Red and Gold Brigade remain contenders for a top-six finish. Hindered by inconsistencies in their performance, they aspire to conclude the season on a high note.

However, achieving victory away from home against Odisha FC poses a formidable challenge. Securing points from this match becomes imperative for their aspirations of staying in contention for a top-six spot.

Injury and Team News

For the home team, Ahmed Jahouh was unavailable against Mohun Bagan due to suspension he will be back in the starting line-up and the rest of the players will also be available for this fixture.

Harmanjot Khabra is still expected to be absent for East Bengal and Saul Crespo continues to focus on recovering from his injury. Hijazi will also be suspended for this upcoming match against the Juggernauts.

Head-to-Head

Matches Played: 8

Odisha Wins: 5

East Bengal Wins: 2

Draws: 1

Predicted Lineups

Odisha FC (4-3-3):

Amrinder Singh (GK), Amey Ranawade, Narender Gahlot, Carlos Delgado, Jerry Larinzuala, Lalthathanga Khawlhring, Lenny Rodrigues, Ahmed Jahouh, Isak Vanlalruetfela, Roy Krishna, Diego Mauricio

East Bengal FC (4-2-3-1):

Prabhsukhan Gill (GK), Nishu Kumar, Lalchungnunga, Aleksandar Pantić, Mandar Rao Dessai, Sauvik Chakraborty, Victor Vazquez, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Cleiton Silva, Nandhakumar Sekar, Brown Forbes

Players to Watch

Roy Krishna (Odisha FC)

Under Lobera at Odisha FC this season, Roy Krishna has rediscovered his top form, becoming a pivotal figure in the team’s attacking strategy.

Operating flexibly as both a winger and a forward, he thrives on the freedom provided by the existing system. Krishna, the current leading goal-scorer of the ISL season with 11 goals. He is a top-quality player and will be big threat for the Red and Gold’s defense for sure.

Aleksandar Pantić (East Bengal FC)

Undoubtedly, his stellar performance thus far has garnered widespread acclaim & he is poised to play a pivotal role in this match by leading the defense against the formidable Juggernauts, who are currently in excellent form with a potent attacking force. Pantic’s exceptional awareness within the box and proficiency in aerial duels make him a crucial asset.

Staying vigilant and agile will be imperative for him to maintain the solidity of the defense and counter the threats posed by the opposing team.

Did you Know?

• Odisha FC haven’t lost in their last 4 games.
• Last season Odisha FC won both games against East Bengal (3-1 at home and 4-2 away).
• Puitea has more yellow cards (5) than any other player at Odisha FC. Sauvik Chakrabarti has collected 5 for East Bengal.

Telecast

The Odisha vs East Bengal game kicks off at 07:30 PM (IST), at the Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar on 29th February 2024. Live telecast of this ISL 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.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.