ISL 2025-26: Odisha FC registers narrow win over SC Delhi

Odisha FC recorded a hard-fought 2-1 win against Sporting Club Delhi in their Indian Super League 2025-26 match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Friday.

Early first-half goals from VP Suhair and K Lalrinfela (Mafela) gave Odisha FC a commanding lead, leaving Matija Babovic’s second-half penalty a mere consolation for SC Delhi. Suhair VP had a wonderful game alongside K Lalrinfela, who was deservedly named Player of the Match for his excellent overall performance in midfield.

With this crucial win, Odisha FC climbed to 11th place, leaving behind Chennaiyin FC and NorthEast United FC. It now has 10 points from 11 matches, while SC Delhi remains at 10th place with the same number of points from 11 matches, staying ahead thanks to goal difference.

The win gives a huge boost to Odisha FC’s survival hopes as they continue to fight their way out of the looming relegation battle. Meanwhile, SC Delhi was left to rue missed opportunities after completely dominating possession but failing to capitalize on its attacking attributes.

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The match started with Odisha FC completely catching the hosts off guard during the opening exchange. The Juggernauts broke the deadlock in just four minutes when an unmarked Suhair met a perfect cross from Sanathoi Singh Heikrujam and found the back of the net with a header to take a 1-0 lead.

SC Delhi slowly started to get back into the match but the visitor struck again in the 13th minute after Delhi gave the ball away. Odisha midfielder Lalthhanga Khawlhring (Puitea) provided a spot-on assist for Mafela, who produced a strong right-footed finish with a well-placed shot that rolled into the bottom corner. The goal went past a diving Nora Fernandes to give Odisha FC a 2-0 lead.

The match went on without much incident until the 70th minute when Odisha FC were awarded a clear penalty.

Puitea handled the ball while trying to clear it, resulting in a penalty for handball. Matija Babovic took the penalty in the 74th minute. The forward executed a well-placed penalty with power and precision to pull a goal back for the hosts.

With the clock ticking, Odisha FC tried to maintain possession and manage the match to protect the slim lead. Despite seven minutes of extra time, the Juggernauts withstood the late attack from Delhi to see off the win.

Published on May 8, 2026