In an Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 showdown at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan, Mohammedan SC held Odisha FC to a goalless draw, snapping their five-game losing streak. The match featured a plethora of missed opportunities, tactical battles, and moments that had fans on the edge of their seats, but ultimately, neither side could break the deadlock.
First Half: Mohammedan SC Shows Early Promise
The game began with both teams eager to assert dominance. Mohammedan SC, desperate for redemption, created the first clear opportunity in the 7th minute. Alexis Gomez floated a beautiful set-piece into the box, finding Joe Zoherliana, who unfortunately headed the ball over the bar.
The home side continued to press, with Bikash Singh setting up Gomez for a long-range effort in the 14th minute, only to see the shot veer past the post. Despite Mohammedan’s attacking intent, their finishing left much to be desired.
Odisha FC, known as the Juggernauts, struggled to find their rhythm in the opening half. Although they dominated possession, their inability to register a shot on target highlighted their lack of cutting edge.
Second Half: A Battle of Attrition
Odisha FC finally looked to capitalize on a set-piece in the 54th minute. Hugo Boumous, their star midfielder, delivered a well-placed free-kick into the box aimed at Thoiba Singh. However, Mohammedan’s Mohammed Irshad intercepted with a crucial header, forcing a reflex save from goalkeeper Padam Chettri.
The home side regained momentum shortly after. In the 66th minute, Alexis Gomez, the creative engine for Mohammedan, orchestrated a slick one-two with Bikash before unleashing a thunderous shot that rattled the crossbar. This was the closest Mohammedan came to scoring all evening.
Just minutes later, Cesar Manzoki was set up by Irshad from a corner, but his header also struck the crossbar. It seemed as though fate conspired against Mohammedan SC, denying them a much-needed goal.
Late Drama and Missed Opportunities
Odisha FC made late substitutions, hoping for a spark of creativity. In the 94th minute, Boumous delivered a perfect lateral pass to Diego Mauricio, who had the chance to steal the game for Odisha. However, the Brazilian’s header missed the target, summing up a frustrating evening for the visitors.
Despite their dominance in possession, Odisha finished the match without a single shot on target—a statistic that reflects their struggles in the final third.
Key Performances
- Alexis Gomez (Mohammedan SC):
- The creative spark for the home side, Gomez was instrumental in creating chances and unlucky not to score.
- Mohammed Irshad (Mohammedan SC):
- A rock in defense and a crucial contributor in attack, his creative crosses nearly broke the deadlock.
- Hugo Boumous (Odisha FC):
- Despite his efforts, including a precise free-kick delivery, Boumous couldn’t inspire his side to a win.
- Padam Chettri (Mohammedan SC):
- Pulled off a crucial save to deny Odisha FC a late goal, securing a hard-fought draw.
Match Stats at a Glance
| Statistic | Mohammedan SC | Odisha FC |
|---|---|---|
| Possession (%) | 39% | 61% |
| Shots (on target) | 8 (2) | 7 (0) |
| Corners | 5 | 4 |
| Fouls | 15 | 10 |
Post-Match Reactions
Mohammedan SC Manager: “The boys showed resilience and determination. Breaking our losing streak is a step in the right direction.”
Odisha FC Manager: “We dominated possession but lacked the cutting edge. It’s something we need to work on before the next match.”
Alexis Gomez: “We were unlucky today, hitting the crossbar twice, but the team’s spirit was commendable.”
FAQs
Mohammedan SC showed grit and created more chances, hitting the crossbar twice, but couldn’t find the net.
The match ended in a 0-0 draw, with neither team able to capitalize on their chances.
Alexis Gomez and Mohammed Irshad shone for Mohammedan SC, while Hugo Boumous was key for Odisha FC.
Mohammedan SC will look to build on this draw in their next match, while Odisha FC will aim to address their finishing woes.
Conclusion: A Draw That Felt Like a Win for Mohammedan SC
The goalless draw between Mohammedan SC and Odisha FC may not have been a goal-fest, but it was a tactical battle filled with moments of brilliance and near misses. For Mohammedan SC, breaking their five-game losing streak feels like a victory in itself, especially with Alexis Gomez and Mohammed Irshad stepping up.
For Odisha FC, the match highlighted their possession dominance but exposed their inability to finish chances. As the ISL season progresses, both teams will look to iron out their flaws and climb the table.
The stage is set for more drama in the coming weeks, and both sets of fans will hope their teams can turn things around. For now, it’s a point each, but for Mohammedan SC, it’s a glimmer of hope after weeks of despair.
Final Score: Mohammedan SC 0-0 Odisha FC
