AFC Cup: Odisha targets first points against Maziya S&RC

Odisha FC will host Maziya S&RC from the Maldives at the Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar at 5:30 PM in the AFC Cup. The Juggernauts have lost both their matches in Group D of the AFC Cup so far, 0-4 against Mohun Bagan SG and 2-3 against Bashundhara Kings.

Head coach Sergio Lobera feels that winning the remaining four games in the group will put his side in good stead to finish top and qualify for the knockout stage.

“We have shown a lot of potential in our last match (against Bashundhara Kings). I believe three points in this game will put us back in contention,” he said. “Our target now is to win all the remaining games in the group stage, and I think if we have 12 points, we will be able to make it to the knockout stage.”

Asked about his strategy for the game, Lobera walked the middle path, choosing to stress on the importance of finding the balance.

“We have to try and find the right balance between defence and attack. Our first game (against Mohun Bagan SG) was difficult, especially in the second half. We need to improve our levels in certain sectors, and compete better than we have,” he said.

Speaking about Maziya, Lobera said, “They have a well balanced side, and some fast attacking players. They lost a point in the last minute in their game against Mohun Bagan SG, but they have shown that they are quite comfortable on the ball and have players that know the importance of winning back possession.”

Maziya head coach Milomir Seslija rates Odisha as a technically better side than Mohun Bagan SG, and feels that they have been unlucky so far.

“Odisha are technically one of the best sides in India. In some ways, even better than Mohun Bagan. They have been very unlucky to have lost their first two games, but I think that will make them even more resolute against us. We have to play our best game against a very good side,” said Seslija.

The Maziya head coach feels that his side have improved over time, and are better equipped to take on Indian clubs. “Last season when we played against Indian clubs, there was a big gap between us. This season, that is not the case, as we have played well. We want to continue that, and want our players to enjoy the game.”

Live streaming

Odisha FC and Maziya S&RC will kick off the first game of the day on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at 5.30 pm IST at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. The match will be broadcasted live on Sports 18, and streamed live on Jio Cinema.