Bhubaneswar: Odisha FC and NorthEast United FC played out a goalless draw in their MG Indian Super League match at the Kalinga Stadium here on Saturday night.
Odisha goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari was the hero for the home side, making key saves to keep NorthEast United at bay. The visitors had more chances, but Odisha’s defence stayed strong and earned a clean sheet in front of their fans.
NorthEast United Attack Early
NorthEast United made the first move in the fifth minute. Jithin MS sent in a cross, and Nikola Ninković tried to score, but Tiwari saved his effort.
Odisha replied soon after when Everton Nascimento took a long-range shot, but the ball went wide.
The visitors kept pressing. Alaaeddine Ajaraie got a good chance after finding space near the Odisha box, but Tiwari stopped him again. The first half ended without a goal.
Late Penalty Missed
After the break, Odisha coach TG Purushothaman made changes to add fresh energy. Nandhakumar Sekar came on for Jeremy Zohminghlua in the 67th minute. Later, Rahim Ali and Manuel Molina replaced Mahmoud Eid and Giorgi Aburjania.
NorthEast United also brought on attacking players, including Parthib Gogoi and Ethyan González, hoping to score a late winner. But neither team could find the net.
In added time, Odisha’s Stephen Eze was judged to have handled the ball inside the box, and NorthEast United were awarded a penalty. Ajaraie took the kick, but his shot hit the woodwork. Odisha survived the scare and the match ended 0-0.
The draw gave Odisha a valuable point at home. NorthEast United, however, missed a big chance to win and extend their strong run in the league.
