Mauricio’s Penalty Kick Propels Odisha FC to Consecutive Kalinga Super Cup Final
In a tightly contested match, Odisha FC clinches a victory against Mumbai City FC with a 1-0 score, advancing to the Kalinga Super Cup final, thanks to Diego Mauricio’s crucial penalty.
BHUBANESWAR – In a nail-biting semi-final at the Kalinga Stadium, Odisha FC emerged victorious over Mumbai City FC, securing their place in the Kalinga Super Cup final for the second consecutive time.
The game’s turning point was Diego Mauricio’s successful penalty kick in the 44th minute, giving Odisha FC the lead.
This intense match between the Indian Super League teams was marked by early aggression, with Jorge Pereyra Diaz of Mumbai City FC narrowly missing a headed flick in the opening minute.
Odisha FC responded quickly, creating their first significant opportunity in the fifth minute, although Mourtada Fall’s long-range free kick missed the target.
Roy Krishna’s long-range attempt for Odisha FC was thwarted by Mumbai’s goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa within minutes.
Isaka Ralte later attempted a powerful long-range shot for Odisha, which flew just above the crossbar.
The Odisha FC defense, led by Fall, effectively countered Mumbai City FC’s attacks, notably blocking a strong shot by Diaz midway through the first half.
Odisha FC’s breakthrough came just before halftime when Diego Mauricio was brought down by Lachenpa, earning a penalty following Isak Ralte’s incisive pass.
The second half saw Odisha FC, coached by Petr Kratky, aggressively seeking to extend their lead with several near misses, including Sanjeev Stalin’s shot saved by Ralte and Mehtab Singh’s header hitting the crossbar.
In the final minutes, tension escalated with Rostyn Griffiths, Diaz, and Gurkirat Singh of Mumbai City FC receiving red cards after a heated dispute.
Odisha FC’s win sets up a showdown with East Bengal FC in the Kalinga Super Cup final on January 28, under the guidance of coach Sergio Lobera.
