Isak’s late goal propels Odisha FC to semifinals with 2-1 victory over Kerala Blasters in ISL 2023-24 playoffs

Odisha FC made history on Friday night as they secured a spot in the Indian Super League (ISL) semifinals for the first time with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Kerala Blasters at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. The match went into extra time, with Isak Vanlalruatfela scoring the decisive goal to send the Juggernauts through.

It was a tense encounter from the start, with both teams fighting hard for a breakthrough. Lithuanian striker Fedor Cernych finally broke the deadlock in the 67th minute, putting Kerala Blasters ahead. However, Odisha FC refused to give up, with Diego Mauricio equalizing in the 87th minute before Isak Vanlalruatfela sealed the win in the 97th minute.

The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Odisha FC showing great resilience and determination to come from behind and secure the victory. Head coach Sergio Lobera’s tactical substitution proved to be a game-changer, as Mauricio and Roy Krishna combined brilliantly to turn the tide in their favor.

With this win, Odisha FC will now face ISL Shield winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the semifinals, with the first leg scheduled for April 23. For Kerala Blasters, it was a disappointing end to their campaign, falling short once again in the knockout stages.

The fans at the Kalinga Stadium were treated to a thrilling spectacle, with both teams leaving everything on the pitch. Odisha FC will now be looking to carry this momentum into the semifinals as they aim to make history in the ISL.