What Odisha FC need to do to make it to the ISL 2024-25 playoffs?

Sergio Lobera’s Odisha FC no more have their fate in own hands.

Sergio Lobera’s arrival at Odisha FC was expected to mark a new era of dominance, similar to his stints with FC Goa and Mumbai City FC, where he built teams capable of winning both the ISL Shield and the ISL Trophy. Under his guidance last season, Odisha FC transformed from underachievers into serious contenders, narrowly missing out on the Shield.

With a squad bolstered by marquee signings like Hugo Boumous and Rahim Ali, expectations were high that they would not only secure a Top 6 finish with ease but also challenge for silverware. However, football is unpredictable and Odisha FC now finds themselves struggling to even qualify for the playoffs, a situation uncharacteristic of a Lobera-led side.

𝗡𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 4️⃣1️⃣ 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀. 💥#OdishaFC #AmaTeamAmaGame #KalingaWarriors #ISL pic.twitter.com/WGmOh4n5hY

— Odisha FC (@OdishaFC) February 21, 2025

The biggest challenge has been inconsistency, with the team failing to maintain momentum in crucial fixtures, leading to unexpected defeats. Defensive frailties and an overreliance on individual brilliance rather than cohesive gameplay have also contributed to their downfall. However, hope is not lost, as Odisha FC still has a mathematical chance to make the Top 6, provided they capitalize on upcoming fixtures and rectify their tactical approach.

Lobera, known for his attacking philosophy, might need to adapt his strategies, focusing on defensive solidity while allowing his creative players more freedom in the final third. If Odisha FC can find a balance and deliver in high-stakes matches, they might yet salvage their campaign and secure a playoff spot against all odds.

A close look at Odisha’s remaining three games

Odisha FC’s journey to the Top 6 is hanging by a thread as they sit in seventh place, trailing Mumbai City FC by just three points. Their superior goal difference gives them a slight edge if points end up level, but they must secure as many victories as possible in their final three fixtures. Their recent form have been mixed, with two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five outings, showcasing both resilience and inconsistency.

The upcoming clashes present a significant challenge, particularly the Mohun Bagan Supergiants encounter, which could decide the ISL Shield winner. Additionally, their fixture against Jamshedpur FC, another direct contender for a Top-2 spot, will be a high-stakes battle.

Despite the daunting fixtures ahead, Odisha FC can take solace in avoiding direct clashes with other teams vying for the Top 6, which might work in their favour. However, two of their three matches will be away games, adding another layer of difficulty as they travel to Kolkata and Jamshedpur, two venues known for their passionate home support.

The match against Mohammedan Sporting Club, who are out of the playoff race, presents their best opportunity for three points, but they must be cautious of complacency. If Odisha FC can grind out results in these crucial games, their playoff hopes remain alive, but they must deliver their best performances when it matters the most.

Odisha will be keenly looking at the Islanders and the Highlanders

Odisha FC’s playoff destiny is no longer in their own hands. Even if they secure victories in all three remaining fixtures, their qualification for the Top 6 depends on how other teams perform. They will be closely monitoring results involving Bengaluru FC, NorthEast United FC, and Mumbai City FC, as these teams hold the key to their survival in the playoff race.

Bengaluru FC, currently fifth in the table, have four remaining matches and could accumulate a maximum of 41 points, making them an unlikely team to drop out. However, their fixture against NorthEast United FC is crucial, as a win for the Highlanders would make Odisha FC’s qualification even more difficult.

This brings us to NorthEast United FC, the primary team Odisha FC will be hoping to see stumble. For Odisha to have a realistic shot, NorthEast United must drop at least four points in their remaining games. If this doesn’t happen, Odisha FC’s only alternative would be to pin their hopes on Mumbai City FC. The Islanders have three remaining fixtures, and Odisha FC must hope they drop at least three more points to stand a chance.

With the margins so fine, Odisha FC must not only win their own matches but also rely on favorable results elsewhere. Their fate hinges on a complex equation of dropped points, making the final stretch of the ISL season an intense battle for playoff qualification.

Can Odisha win all their remaining three games?

At this stage, Odisha FC’s only focus is to secure the maximum nine points from their remaining three matches. Dropping even a single point could spell disaster for their playoff hopes. However, the road ahead is not at all easy.

Their biggest test comes next, a high-stakes away clash against Mohun Bagan Super Giant. The Mariners will be playing in front of a fervent home crowd, with the ISL Shield on the line. Mohun Bagan will be desperate to seal the league title, making this a daunting challenge for Odisha FC. However, this match also offers them a shot at redemption after last season’s semi-final heartbreak.

The second major hurdle is Jamshedpur FC. If Jamshedpur manages to defeat Kerala Blasters and solidify a spot in the Top 6 before facing Odisha, it could make the fixture even trickier. A qualification-sealed Jamshedpur might ease their intensity, but a side still fighting for a top-two finish would be relentless.

Their final game, a home fixture against Mohammedan Sporting Club, appears to be the least challenging. With Sporting Club out of both Shield and Top 6 contention, Odisha FC must capitalize on this match to ensure a full three points.

Sergio Lobera will need his key players – Diego Mauricio, Hugo Gomes, Ahmed Jahouh, and Mourtada Fall to step up in these defining moments. Odisha FC not only requires a tactical masterclass from their coach but also a stroke of fortune from other results. The Kalinga Warriors will hope that the divine blessings of Lord Jagannath guide them through this decisive phase.

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.