FC Goa looks to recover as they chase top-two spot

PANAJI

FC Goa will take on Odisha FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa in what is a vital match for both teams in the Indian Super League. FC Goa, coming off a tough loss, will be eager to bounce back, while Odisha FC is looking to build on their recent good form.

FC Goa has had the upper hand in their encounters with Odisha FC, winning seven of the 11 matches between the two teams. The Gaurs are hoping to complete a third league double over Odisha this season, having already beaten them 4-2 in the reverse fixture on January 4. FC Goa is one of only two teams in ISL history to remain unbeaten in over 10 matches against a single opponent, alongside Mohun Bagan Super Giant, who have a similar record against East Bengal FC.

However, FC Goa’s 12-match unbeaten run was recently ended with a 1-3 defeat to Jamshedpur FC. Despite this setback, the Gaurs are still in a strong position, sitting third in the league with 33 points from 18 games. They are just one point behind second-placed Jamshedpur FC and will be aiming to avoid back-to-back defeats, something they haven't experienced since last April.

Odisha FC, on the other hand, has found some form after a rough patch. They recently won 3-2 against Bengaluru FC on the road and followed that with a 2-2 draw at home against NorthEast United FC. Despite struggling with away form in the past, Odisha FC will be hopeful of securing another victory tonight. They currently sit in 7th place with 25 points, three points behind 6th-placed Mumbai City FC.

For FC Goa, a win is crucial to stay in the race for a top-two finish and direct playoff qualification. Odisha FC, meanwhile, will be looking to close the gap on the top teams and keep their playoff hopes alive with another positive result.

Highlights

FC Goa’s attack: Despite not being the most efficient in terms of shot conversion (12.8%), they are one of the most attacking teams in the league, ranking 4th for both shots (195) and goals (33).

Odisha FC’s goal scoring: Odisha FC has been very efficient in attack, scoring the 2nd most goals (36) in the league and averaging 2 goals per game.

Head-to-Head: FC Goa has a strong record against Odisha FC, winning 7 out of 11 encounters. The matches between these teams are usually high-scoring (average of 3.27 goals per game), so expect an entertaining match.