FC Goa will strive to recover from their first defeat this season as they take on Odisha FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 at the PJN Stadium in Goa. Meanwhile, Sporting Club Delhi will seek their second consecutive victory after securing their first win of the season in their previous match against NorthEast United FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati.
NorthEast United FC, playing after a 20-day gap, will return to their home ground to bounce back from a 1-4 loss to Odisha FC. SC Delhi, sitting in 12th place with five points, aim to surpass NorthEast United by securing a win on Friday, which would propel them to eight points.
Anticipating a tough challenge, NorthEast United FC head coach Juan Pedro Benali acknowledged SC Delhi’s tactical prowess. Benali praised SC Delhi’s style of play, noting their fast and technically skilled players, clear system, and motivated squad following their recent victory.
NorthEast United FC forward Ankith Padmanabhan expressed the team’s determination to secure three points in the upcoming match. Padmanabhan highlighted the high morale within the squad and their focus on regaining momentum with a win.
For Sporting Club Delhi, Assistant Coach Noel Joseph emphasized the importance of each game in climbing the league table. SC Delhi’s Head Coach Tomasz Tchórz will miss the game due to a suspension, but the team remains focused on securing a victory against NorthEast United FC.
SC Delhi’s Augustine Lalrochana stressed the significance of winning the next match to move up in the standings. Lalrochana highlighted the team’s dedication to hard work and focus on the upcoming game to continue their positive trajectory.
In another fixture, FC Goa will face the challenge of bouncing back from a 0-2 defeat to Bengaluru FC as they play against Odisha FC at Fatorda. With four draws from seven matches, FC Goa, currently in seventh place with 10 points, aims to convert draws into wins to climb up the table.
Odisha FC, currently in tenth place with five points, will aim to recover from a 0-1 defeat to league leaders Mumbai City FC. The team will look to improve their position in the standings with a win against FC Goa and capitalize on their remaining games.
Reflecting on FC Goa’s recent performance, head coach Manolo Márquez emphasized the need for a stronger start from his team in matches. Márquez expressed satisfaction with the squad’s potential and optimism for a successful season despite challenges.
FC Goa’s young prospect Bob Jackson Raj highlighted the competition within the squad and the importance of staying focused and giving their best in training to earn playing opportunities. Raj emphasized the learning process of transitioning into a professional player and the dedication required.
