Indian Super League club Odisha FC's hopes of reaching the Inter-Zone final of the AFC Cup were dashed after a goalless draw in the home leg against Australia's Central Coast Mariners in Bhubaneswar on Thursday.
Having lost the first leg 4-0 to the A-League side, Odisha FC needed a remarkable comeback to progress. However, they failed to capitalize on the home advantage and conceded the tie 0-4 on aggregate.
The Mariners, who traveled to India with a comfortable cushion, started brightly. Ronald Barcellos and Angel Torres had early chances but were denied by Odisha goalkeeper Amrinder Singh.
Central Coast was awarded a penalty in the first half when Ryan Edmondson was brought down by Carlos Delgado. However, Mikael Doka's spot-kick was saved by Amrinder.
The visitors continued to control possession but lacked the dominance they displayed in the first leg. Odisha defender Mourtada Fall cleared Max Balard's free-kick under pressure from Edmondson, while the Englishman missed a volley in a promising position.
In the final quarter, Christian Theoharous had a shot saved by Amrinder, and Miguel Di Pizio's late effort was deflected wide.
Odisha FC's elimination from the AFC Cup marks a disappointing end to their continental campaign. The Indian club had reached the group stage for the first time this season but failed to make a significant impact.
Tags: #AFC, Cup, #Odisha, FC, #Central
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