ISL: Odisha FC Edge Past SC East Bengal, Keep Semi-Final Hopes Alive
NDTV
ISL: Odisha FC kept their semi-final hopes alive with a 2-1 win against SC East Bengal on Monday.
Javier Hernandez scored a decisive goal as Odisha FC beat SC East Bengal 2-1 to keep their semifinal hopes alive in the Indian Super League (ISL) on Monday. The result has elevated Odisha to the sixth place in the points table. Jonathas (23') gave Odisha an early lead that lasted until Antonio Perosevic (64') scored the equaliser in the second half. Hernandez (75') regained the lead for OFC with a precise finish which proved to be the winner in the end. In the early stages of the match, Odisha FC applied a lot of pressure and was rewarded with a goal from Jonathas.
The cross for the goal was provided by Hernandez who made room on the right flank and served the ball on a platter for the striker who tapped in from close range.
Looking for the equaliser, Hira Mondal took an attempt just before half time but his left-footed strike went wayward.
The first half ended with the Kalinga Warriors retaining their one-goal advantage. The restart saw more sluggish game play as neither side was able to find inspiration in the final third.
The best chance to score the equaliser fell to Antonio Perosevic two minutes before the hour mark.
