KOLKATA, INDIA: Mohun Bagan host Odisha FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Salt Lake Stadium (Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan) in Kolkata on Thursday, November 4. The hosts are currently the leaders of the ISL table with nine points from four matches. They have won three out of the four games they have played so far, with a solitary loss to NorthEast United away from home.
Odisha, meanwhile, are yet to taste their first victory this season, having drawn two and lost one of the three ISL games they have played. They have just two points in their bag currently, and as a result, are ranked 10th in the standings. The Juggernauts‘ negative goal difference of -1 does not help their cause, leaving coach TG Purushothaman with a mountain to climb.
In this article, we preview this ISL clash between Bagan and Odisha FC.
What are Mohun Bagan’s strengths?
Mohun Bagan are big spenders and, as a result, have garnered a squad that can comfortably compete at the continental level, let alone the ISL. It is no wonder that they are on top of the standings after boasting a squad that featured seven India internationals in their recent 2-1 victory over Punjab FC. The club have also recruited fine overseas players, including Dejan Drazic and Lee Erwin.
Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis, formerly of Punjab FC, has brought with him fresh ideas of a direct mode of attack that have helped the Mariners immensely this season. In their last three games, which they won, Bagan used a fluid front four in the final third, with Lallianzuala Chhangte offering himself in flexible positions inside the box. Bagan have also conceded just thrice this season.
Mohun Bagan predicted lineup vs Odisha FC [4-4-2]: Kaith; Bose, Rodriguez, Bheke, Abhishek; Drazic, Thapa, Tangri, Manvir; Chhangte, Erwin.
What is expected from Odisha FC?
Odisha FC have underperformed this season, having scored just two goals. Their recent goalless draw with NorthEast United was a case in point with regard to their attacking returns. Despite keeping 43% of the ball, the Juggernauts were unable to take more than five shots, of which just two were on target. Quite naturally, then, their xG was a measly-looking 0.13 at the end of the evening.
But Odisha have not faltered big-time in defence, having conceded just thrice. Still, their inability to create transitions has hurt. Against the Highlanders, left wingback Jeremy Zohminglua, formerly of Hyderabad FC, impressed by sending seven passes into the final third before being taken off. Fellow defender Thoiba Singh did not fare so well, losing 67% of all ground duels he entered into.
Odisha FC predicted lineup vs Mohun Bagan [5-3-2]: Tewari; Zohminghlua, Bhanwala, Eze, Thoiba, Vanlalzuidka; Khiangte, Puitea, Aburjania; Everton, Eid.
Mohun Bagan vs Odisha FC ISL match prediction
Mohun Bagan have the upper hand over their opponents. The two clubs are separated by nine spots in the table. Odisha’s away form gives us no confidence: they have won just one out of their last 13 ISL meetings with Bagan on the road. Overall, Bagan have been unbeaten in 23 out of the last 26 ISL matches recorded between the sides. We expect Bagan to end the evening undefeated.
Predicted result: Mohun Bagan 3-1 Odisha FC
Where can I watch Mohun Bagan vs Odisha FC?
The ISL clash between Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC will kick off at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday, November 5, at the Salt Lake Stadium (Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan) in Kolkata. It will be streamed live and for free on YouTube. SonyLIV will also stream the game, while Sony Sports Network will provide television coverage.
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Cover image courtesy: X/MohunBaganSG
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