Odisha FC bows out of AFC Cup with a goalless draw against Central Coast Mariners in Inter-Zone Playoff Semi-final

Odisha FC’s AFC Cup journey came to a halt following a goalless draw against Central Coast Mariners in the Inter-Zone Playoff semi-final. The Kalinga Stadium witnessed a 4-0 aggregate defeat for Odisha FC, sealing their fate in the competition.

After a 4-0 loss in the first leg, Odisha FC faced an uphill battle in the second leg. Despite needing a significant turnaround, Sergio Lobera’s side struggled to break through the determined defense of Central Coast Mariners.

The Mariners asserted their dominance from the start, controlling possession and limiting Odisha FC’s attacking opportunities. Despite 17 shots from Central Coast Mariners, Odisha FC’s defense held firm to prevent further goals.

In the 26th minute, Central Coast Mariners came close to scoring when Mikael Doka, the hero of the first leg, struck the post from the penalty spot. Odisha FC’s attacking efforts fell short in the second half, failing to trouble the Mariners’ goalkeeper, Danny Vukovic.

Looking ahead, Odisha FC will regroup before facing Bengaluru FC on March 30 at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium. Meanwhile, Central Coast Mariners advance to the Inter-Zonal Final, where they will match up against FK Abdish-Ata Kant from Kyrgyzstan.

Despite the disappointment of their AFC Cup exit, Odisha FC will aim to bounce back in domestic competition against Bengaluru FC. The Kalinga Warriors will be eager to put this setback behind them and focus on their upcoming challenges in the Indian football scene.