XtraTime Web Desk – After a very difficult start in the league, Odisha FC were desperately needed points to stay in the hunt for top 4. After much struggle, they got one as they drew 2-2 with NorthEast United.
NorthEast put a lot of pressure in the initial minutes but Odisha’s defence had the solution. Odisha then created a couple of opportunities but this time it was NorthEast who were ready. In this end to end match, Odisha FC took the lead in the 23rd minute as Diego Mauricio’s brilliant effort put them 1-0 ahead of the Highlanders. Dylan Fox’s goal-line then recieved a lot of appreciation and indeed so cause of NorthEast would’ve been 2-0 down at that point, their chances of coming back into the match would have been very tough.
NorthEast put a lot of pressure, created a lot of chances but was unable to find the opening. However, just before half-time, Benjamin Lambot pulled one back and tied the score to 1-1. With that, the first half ended 1-1.
In the second half, after a bit of struggle, NorthEast scored the goal in the 65th minute and took a lead. Kwesi Appiah scored from a spot kick that was awarded to the Highlanders after Odisha committed a foul inside their D-box. NorthEast’s happiness didn’t last long as Odisha scored right in the next minute. Cole Alexander brought Odisha into level terms. NorthEast then got a good opportunity to take a lead but Khassa Camara’s shot just went above the match as the match ended 2-2.
Odisha got their much needed point. They are now in the 10th place with 2 points from 7 games while NorthEast is on 4th with 11 points from 8 games.