NEW DELHI, MAY 8 (AGENCIES): Odisha FC secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Sporting Club Delhi in their Indian Super League 2025–26 encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. The result lifted Odisha to 10 points, while Delhi’s campaign suffered another setback despite dominating possession.
Odisha struck early, stunning the home crowd with two goals inside the opening 15 minutes. Suhair VP opened the scoring in the 4th minute, finishing off a move initiated by Heikrujam Singh. Just nine minutes later, K. Lalrinfela doubled the lead with a composed strike, assisted by Lalthathanga Khawlhring. The visitors’ sharp attacking play exposed Delhi’s defence and gave Odisha a commanding advantage.
Sporting Club Delhi, however, responded with determination. Controlling nearly 60% possession, they created several chances but were repeatedly denied by Odisha’s disciplined backline and goalkeeper Anuj Kumar. Delhi’s breakthrough came in the 74th minute when Matija Babovic converted a penalty, reducing the deficit and reigniting hopes of a comeback. Despite sustained pressure in the closing stages, Delhi failed to find the equaliser.
The contest reflected contrasting styles-Delhi’s dominance in possession and shot attempts (18 to Odisha’s 5) against Odisha’s clinical finishing and defensive resilience. Odisha’s defence absorbed waves of attacks, with Carlos Delgado and Subham Bhattacharya marshalling the backline effectively. Kumar’s six saves proved decisive in preserving the lead.
The match also saw a flurry of cautions, with Ousmane Fane and Clarence Savio booked for Delhi, while Odisha’s Raj Kumar Sanyasi received a yellow card late in the game.
Ultimately, Odisha’s early strikes and disciplined defence ensured they walked away with all three points. For Delhi, Babovic’s goal was a consolation in a match where missed opportunities proved costly.
