Odisha FC Suffers 4-0 Defeat to Central Coast Mariners in AFC Cup Semi-Finals: Second Leg Set for March 14

Odisha FC, the Indian Super League leaders, faced a tough challenge as they traveled to Australia to take on Central Coast Mariners FC in the first leg of the AFC Cup Inter-Zone Play-Off Semi-Finals. Unfortunately for Odisha, they suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat at the Central Coast Stadium in Gosford on Thursday.

Despite the setback, Odisha FC will have the opportunity to turn the tie around when they host Central Coast Mariners at the Kalinga Stadium on March 14 for the second leg.

The match saw early pressure from Jing Reec, who forced a mistake from Carlos Delgado in the opening minute. Reec found himself facing Amrinder Singh one-on-one but was denied by a fantastic save from the Odisha goalkeeper.

In the 10th minute, Amey Ranawade and Roy Krishna combined well to advance into the Mariners’ defensive third. However, a poor cross from Ranawade was easily dealt with by the Central Coast defense.

Central Coast Mariners took the lead in the 36th minute through Mikael Doka, who finished calmly after a well-worked move that saw Nisbet provide the assist.

The home team extended their lead in the second half, with Storm Roux finding the back of the net in the 52nd minute after a clever assist from Edmondson.

Despite some chances for Odisha FC, including a missed penalty by Roy Krishna in the 77th minute, Central Coast Mariners sealed the win with goals from Doka and Barcellos in the final stages of the match.

Overall, it was a dominant performance from Central Coast Mariners, who showcased their attacking prowess and secured a convincing victory over Odisha FC. The second leg will provide Odisha FC with an opportunity to try and overturn the deficit and advance in the competition.