Bodoland FC vs Odisha FC, Durand Cup 2024: Bodoland get first win of campaign against ISL giants Juggernauts

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Bodoland FC secured their first victory in the Durand Cup 2024 by defeating Odisha FC 2-0 in a Group E match at the SAI Stadium. Forwards Dilliram Sanyasi and Arjun Mardi scored late goals.

The two goals in each half helped keep Bodoland's tournament hopes alive after a previous loss to NorthEast United FC. Odisha, having won their opener against BSF, now face crucial final group games for qualification.

Bodoland's coach, Khlain Syiemlieh, made three changes, including a new goalkeeper, from their first match, while Odisha's coach, Amit Rana, made two changes from the team that played against BSF.

The match started slowly under heavy conditions, with neither team creating clear chances. Bodoland defender Lyngkhoi received the first yellow card after thirty minutes for a tackle from behind.

Syiemlieh substituted Jwngbla Brahma for Ghanaian striker Bejamin Techie at the 40-minute mark, a move that quickly paid off. Joe Aidoo's cross was poorly cleared by Odisha, allowing Dilliram Sanyasi to score from close range.

In the second half, Brahma’s shot was saved by Odisha's Niraj Kumar. Odisha had a chance to equalize when Pungte Lapung’s shot was blocked by Bodoland's defense.

Syiemlieh continued to make substitutions, and in the 88th minute, Momocha Singh's cross found Arjun Mardi, who headed it into the net for Bodoland’s second goal, sealing the victory.