The match between Chennaiyin Fc and Odisha FC had no lack of flavour and fireworks tonight in Hero Indian Super League. However, it ended in a 0-0 draw tonight in the GMC stadium Bambolim as both the teams share the spoils.
It was a must-win match for both the teams, especially for Odisha FC who were desperate to improve their position in the table. This intent was very clear in the starting hours when Daniel Lalhlimpuia won a freekick, followed by a good attempt by Jacob Tratt, which was cancelled by a Diego Mauricio offside.
Chennaiyin FC had their chances when they got a bit organised. Lallianzuala Chhangte got an opportunity with a powerful shot, from an assist by Memo. It was just a tad to the left when it missed the net.
It was followed by an Eli Sabia header from the centre of the box in the 17th minute, which traversed the crossbar. Lallianzuala Chhangte‘s left-footed shot from outside the box missed the mark as it was a bit high.
The frustration from the Marina Machans was clear, as they continued to miss chances or get blocked. A total of five attempts were blocked in the second quarter of the game. Enes Sipovic from Chennaiyin Fc was shown the first yellow of the day when he was involved in a dangerous challenge. A similar fate awaited Jerry Lalrinzuala for the same action.
The condition did not improve for the teams even after halftime. Multiple attacks but none of them resulted in a goal. Multiple attempts were there from both sides but all failed to register a goal.
It was a chain of fouls and free kicks as the second half went on. In the 69th minute, Isma replaced Jakub Sylvestr. Odisha replaced Daniel Lalhilmpuia by Manuel Onwu at this time to add to their attacking prowess.
The Marina Machans made another change in the 76th minute as Edwin Vanspaul replaced Fatkhulo Fatkhulloev. In the 83rd minute, Jacob Tratt made a foul and was shown a yellow card. Odisha FC introduced Shubham Sarangi in the 90th minute, to increase the defensive strength. The rest of the match went without any drama.
Hero of the Match – Lallianzuala Chhangte
Lallianzuala Chhangte, the winger from Chennaiyin FC received the ‘Hero of the Match’ award. He had a major impact on the game, with creating a number of chances and key passes. With 46 touches, 4 successful tackles and 38 passes, the number speaks for themselves.
After this draw, Chennaiyin Fc remains at the 8th spot with 11 points from 10 matches. Odisha Fc remained at the 11th position with 6 points from the same number of matches.
Chennaiyin FC is going to face SC East Bengal next on 18th January. Odisha FC will take on Hyderabad FC on 19th January where they will try to reverse their luck.
