Central Coast Mariners vs Odisha FC: Three key battles to determine AFC Cup tie

Odisha FC will want to return to India with at least a point from this AFC Cup tie.

The upcoming AFC Cup quarter-final (inter-zonal semi-final) contest between the Central Coast Mariners of the A-League Men and the Odisha FC of the Indian Super League is seeing a lot of anticipation. Both outfits are doing well in their respective domestic leagues and will try to beat the other across the two legs that will be played at the Central Coast Stadium and the Kalinga Stadium on 7 March and 14 March 2024, respectively. 

There are plenty of noteworthy talents in both clubs who have been performing well in the AFC Cup 2023-24 campaign up to this point. The head coaches in both camps will be relying on their key players to deliver once again and help their teams navigate into the next round of the continental tournament.

There is little to separate the sides on paper. With plenty of tasty duels set to take place when these promising Asian clubs lock horns, here is a look at the top three key battles that may decide the outcome:

3. Ryan Edmondson vs Mourtada Fall

Ryan Edmondson signed for Central Coast Mariners in January 2024 to add more firepower to the squad. The former England U-20 international has scored three goals in two AFC Cup appearances and looks hungry for more going into the fixture against Odisha FC.

However, the English striker will face a stiff challenge from someone like Mourtada Fall in Odisha FC’s backline. The towering centre-back loves to dominate strikers with his physicality and has an expert reading of the game. It will be interesting to see who comes out on top from this duel.

2. Daniel Hall vs Diego Mauricio

Daniel Hall is an integral part of the Central Coast Mariners’ defence. The defender has featured extensively for the side across all competitions, playing a key role in their backline in the process. His partnership with Brian Kaltack is difficult to breach.

Having said that, Odisha FC has players that are unplayable on their best days and Diego Mauricio is one of them. The Brazilian relies on his strength and speed to outmuscle defenders, creating scoring opportunities. He has three goals in the AFC Cup and will be an obvious threat to the Mariners.

1. Angel Torres vs Amey Ranawade

Angel Torres is a major threat to Odisha FC going into the two-legged fixture against the Central Coast Mariners. The attacking winger is flying high this season with two goals and four assists in seven AFC Cup appearances alone. Overall, the 23-year-old has 13 goals and eight assists across all competitions (from 29 outings).

His battle with Amey Ranawade will be one to watch. The full-back has been a consistent performer for Odisha FC in competitions like the Indian Super League, the Super Cup and the AFC Cup this term. With Angel Torres set to be a crucial figure in the attack, Sergio Lobera will hope that Ranawade can keep him checked when both sides collide.

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.