Odisha FC Falls Short in Bandodkar Trophy Final Shootout.
In the final match of the Bandodkar Memorial Trophy, Odisha FC faced FC Goa on Friday at Fatorda Stadium, Goa. The game ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw, with both teams scoring crucial goals in the final minutes. For Odisha FC, the scorers were Hugo Boumous (18’), Jahouh (48’ penalty), and Rahim (54’). FC Goa’s goals came from Sadiku (34th, 88′) and Drazic (41’). Despite the thrilling draw, Odisha FC fell short in the 3-1 penalty shootout.
The Bhausaheb Bandodkar Memorial Trophy was a vital part of Odisha FC’s pre-season preparations, providing them with valuable match practice and an opportunity to refine their strategies for the 2024-25 season.
Odisha FC competed in Group B of the tournament, where they faced Chennaiyin FC (India), Clube Deportivo Defensa y Justicia (Argentina), and Churchill Brothers FC (India). The Kalinga Warriors began their campaign with a 2-1 victory over Clube Deportivo Defensa y Justicia, followed by a narrow 1-0 win against Chennaiyin FC. They capped off the group stage with an impressive 6-0 victory over Churchill Brothers FC. In the semi-finals, Odisha FC demonstrated their prowess in a thrilling match against Brisbane Roar FC, with Hugo Boumous scoring a spectacular brace to secure their place in the final.
The Kalinga Warriors return to Bhubaneswar on a high note for the ISL 2024-25 season and will face Chennaiyin FC on September 14, 2024, at Kalinga Stadium in their first home game.
