Goa: Odisha FC moved up to fifth place with a 2-0 victory over NorthEast United in the latest 2021-22 Indian Super League encounter at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda. With this win OFC moved from ninth to fifth with just one point separating them from the fourth-placed Mumbai City FC.
Although for Khalid Jamil and his men, the winless streak extends to five games now, with them sitting in 10th place in the standings. Daniel Lalhlimpuia opened the scoresheet fir Kalinga Warriors on 17 minutes this his first goal of the season. Aridai Suarez extended the advantage just five minutes later.
Early on in the game both sides created half-chances to score. Suhair Vadakkepeedika posed Lalkhawpuimawia with a decent chance but the forward completely missed his shot from 12-yards out, much to the anger of coach Khalid Jamil on the sideline. NEUFC was hence punished a few moments later as Daniel Lalhlimpuia scored the opening goa with a simple tap-in.
Aridai Suarez served the ball to Daniel who shot it past Provat Lakra,who was on the left flank and found the striker with a precise low cross. Next,the provider became the scorer as he added his team’s second goal on the board. Aridai noticed space on the left flank, he cut inside on his right foot and then hit a low shot that escaped Mirshad Michu’s grip much to his disappointment.
During the second half the Highlanders pushed for a goal. Hernan Santana blasted his volley against the crossbar from a long-range. Just after the hour mark, Nandhakumar Sekar who came off the bench found a great chance to score the third for his team but his shot saved in a one-on-one situation.
Laldanmawia Ralte seemed to have reduced the deficit during the last stage but his goal was ruled out for offside. NorthEast United FC next face Chennaiyin FC at the PJN Stadium on Saturday (January 22) while Odisha FC would have to wait nine days before meeting Hyderabad FC at the Tilak Maidan Stadium.
