Odisha FC have made impressive strides over the past two seasons, culminating in their best-ever campaign in 2023-24. Under the astute leadership of head coach Sergio Lobera, the Kalinga Warriors reached the ISL semi-finals for the first time, securing 39 points in a record-breaking finish. Adding to their accolades, they claimed their first silverware, solidifying their status as one of the league’s emerging powerhouses.
In recent seasons, Odisha FC have consistently improved their league performance. After finishing 6th in 2019-20 and bottom of the table in 2020-21, they made gradual progress with a 7th place finish in 2021-22, followed by a playoff spot in 2022-23. Last season, they achieved their highest-ever 4th place finish, reaching the ISL semi-finals. This upward trajectory demonstrates the club’s growing prominence in Indian football.
Heading into the 2024-25 season, Odisha FC aim to build on their recent successes and are determined to make a strong push for the ISL title. With minimal changes to their squad, the continuity and stability provided by key players and Lobera’s tactical approach could be crucial as they look to improve upon their achievements.
Summer Transfer Window: Team Composition and Transfer Dealings
Odisha FC have made shrewd moves in the transfer market ahead of the 2024-25 ISL season, bolstering their squad while retaining their core group of players. Their transfer dealings reflect a blend of experience and youthful energy, designed to give them the depth needed to challenge for the title.
The Kalinga Warriors have kept their key foreign players, including Fijian striker Roy Krishna, Spanish defender Carlos Delgado, and midfield general Ahmed Jahouh, ensuring continuity from last season’s successful campaign. They have also retained towering centre-back Mourtada Fall, who has been a defensive pillar, and Diego Mauricio, a forward with a proven goal-scoring track record in the ISL. These players provide a strong foundation as the club builds for the upcoming season.
Odisha FC’s marquee signing for the season is Hugo Boumous, one of the most creative and dynamic attacking midfielders in the ISL. Boumous has previously thrived under head coach Sergio Lobera at both FC Goa and Mumbai City FC, and his reunion with the Spaniard is expected to elevate Odisha’s attacking play. Boumous’ technical skills, vision, and ability to break down defenses make him a critical addition to the squad.
On the domestic front, Odisha FC have brought in Rahim Ali, an industrious forward from Chennaiyin FC, who adds further attacking depth. Rohit Kumar (midfielder) from Bengaluru FC and Raynier Fernandes on loan from FC Goa are two more key acquisitions that strengthen the midfield. Amey Ranawade has extended his loan spell, remaining a pivotal figure in the defense, known for his consistency and ability to support attacks from the right-back position.
Other domestic reinforcements include young talents like Jeremy Zohminghlua from Hyderabad FC, Narendra Naik, and Subham Bhattacharya from Reliance Foundation Young Champs, all of whom bring potential and energy to the squad.
Key Signings In
- Rahim Ali (Joined from Chennaiyin FC)
- Jeremy Zohminghlua (Joined from Hyderabad FC)
- Narendra Naik (Joined from Reliance Foundation Young Champs)
- Subham Bhattacharya (Joined from Reliance Foundation Young Champs)
- Raynier Fernandes (On loan from FC Goa)
- Hugo Boumous (Joined from Mohun Bagan SG)
- Amey Ranawade (On Loan from Mumbai City FC)
- Rohit Kumar (Joined from Bengaluru FC)
Key Transfers Out
- Laldinliana Renthlei (Joined Chennaiyin FC)
- Hitesh Sharma (Out on loan)
- Lalthuammawia Ralte (End of Contract)
- Vignesh Dakshinamurthy (End of Loan)
- Aniket Jadhav (End of Contract)
- Michael Soosairaj (End of Contract)
- Pranjal Bhumij (End of Contract)
- Cy Goddard (End of Contract)
- Princeton Rebello (End of Contract)
- Sahil Panwar (End of Contract)
Odisha FC Strengths
One of Odisha FC’s biggest strengths lies in their tactical identity. Under Lobera, the team has embraced an attacking, possession-based style of football, focusing on fluid movement, quick passing, and relentless pressing. This approach has yielded impressive results, particularly at home, where Odisha FC were unbeaten in 13 consecutive matches at the Kalinga Stadium last season.
Another notable strength is their strong squad depth. By retaining key players such as Roy Krishna, Ahmed Jahouh, and Carlos Delgado, the club has maintained the core that led them to success last season. The addition of Hugo Boumous, an exceptional attacking midfielder, further enhances their offensive capabilities. Boumous’ chemistry with Lobera, stemming from their successful stints at FC Goa and Mumbai City FC, could be a game-changer.
Odisha FC also boasts a reliable defense. Mourtada Fall’s leadership at the back and Ranawade’s ability to support both defensively and offensively provide the team with a solid foundation. Jahouh’s ability to control the midfield and link defense to attack is also key, allowing them to dominate possession.
Odisha FC Weaknesses
While Odisha FC’s attack and defense are strong, one potential area of concern is their over-reliance on specific players for creativity, particularly Hugo Boumous. While Boumous is undoubtedly a top-tier player, the team may struggle if he suffers from injury or loss of form. Finding a way to avoid predictability in their attacking approach will be key.
Additionally, while their home form has been stellar, their performances on the road have been inconsistent. They will need to rectify this if they are to mount a serious challenge for the title. Tough away fixtures, such as facing Bengaluru FC, Mumbai City FC, and East Bengal FC in December, will test their resilience.
Key Players
Hugo Boumous
Returning to work under Lobera, Boumous is expected to be Odisha FC’s main creative outlet. His vision, ability to unlock defenses, and scoring touch make him a key figure.
With a solid preseason, including goals in the Bandodkar Trophy, Boumous is primed to shine.
Amey Ranawade
An integral part of Odisha FC’s backline, Ranawade topped the assist chart for defenders last season.
His overlapping runs and contributions to both attack and defense are vital for Lobera’s style of play. His continued loan spell at Odisha is expected to pay dividends once again.
Roy Krishna
The experienced Fijian forward remains a reliable goal-scoring option for Odisha FC. With his pace, positioning, and ability to finish clinically, Krishna will once again spearhead the attack.
Ahmed Jahouh
A midfield general, Jahouh’s presence in the middle of the park is invaluable. His ability to control the tempo of the game and his tactical intelligence are key to Odisha’s strategy.
Odisha FC Full Squad for ISL 2024-25
Odisha FC Full Squad for ISL 2024-25
Goalkeepers:
- Amrinder Ranjit Singh
- Anuj Kumar
- Kamaljit Singh
- Niraj Kumar
Defenders:
- Amey Ganesh Ranawade
- Carlos Javier Delgado RodrÃguez
- Jeremy Zohminghlua
- Jerry Lalrinzuala
- Narender Gahlot
- Ricky Meetei Haobam
- Saviour Gama
- Sérigné Mourtada Fall
- Subham Bhattacharya
- Tankadhar Bag
- Thoiba Singh Moirangthem
Midfielders:
- Adnan Hugo Boumous
- Ahmed Jahouh
- Givson Singh Moirangthem
- Isak Vanlalruatfela
- Lalthathanga Khawlhring
- Narendra Naik
- Raynier Raymond Fernandes
- Rohit Kumar
Forwards:
- Aphaoba Singh Ashangbam
- Diego MaurÃcio Machado de Brito
- Jerry Mawihmingthanga
- Rahim Ali
- Roy Christopher Krishna
Predicted Best XI
Formation: (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Amrinder Singh
- Defenders: Amey Ranawade, Carlos Delgado, Mourtada Fall, Sahil Panwar
- Midfielders: Ahmed Jahouh, Raynier Fernandes, Hugo Boumous
- Forwards: Roy Krishna, Diego Mauricio, Rahim Ali
Final Thoughts and Predictions
Odisha FC’s 2024-25 ISL campaign begins with a set of home fixtures at the Kalinga Stadium, where they’ll look to maintain their impressive unbeaten streak. They will play four of their first five matches at home, which could give them a strong start. However, a difficult December lies ahead, with matches against strong teams such as Bengaluru FC, Mumbai City FC, and East Bengal FC. Closing the year with an away match against newly-promoted Mohammedan SC will be crucial as they push for the top spots.
Odisha FC’s 2024-25 campaign promises to be one of high expectations and ambition. With a core group of experienced players, the arrival of Hugo Boumous, and a tactically astute manager in Sergio Lobera, they are well-positioned to challenge for the ISL title. Continuity, strong squad depth, and the ability to maintain their fortress-like home form will be key factors in their success. However, overcoming roadblocks such as away form and staying injury-free will determine if Odisha FC can go all the way. All eyes will be on the Kalinga Warriors as they aim to establish themselves as one of the league’s elite.
When is Odisha FC’s first match of the ISL 2024-25 season?
Odisha FC start off their campaign against Chennaiyin FC on Saturday, 14th September at home from 5 pm onwards.
