Bhubaneswar, April 7: In a dramatic relegation clash at Kalinga Stadium, HOPS FC triumphed over defending champions Odisha FC with a 3-2 victory in the IWL 2024-25 on Sunday. The match saw a thrilling first half, with both teams tied at 2-2 before HOPS secured a vital win in the final moments of the game.
With relegation looming, HOPS FC rose to the occasion. The match began with an unfortunate own goal from Odisha FC’s Kiran Pisda in the 13th minute, as she inadvertently turned a low cross from Gladys Amfobea into her own net. Odisha responded quickly when Neha scored in the 14th minute, pouncing on a rebound after Kiran’s cross hit the crossbar.
HOPS regained the lead in the 34th minute when Pooja capitalized on a ball that ricocheted off the far post from another cross by Gladys. Odisha equalized just before halftime, with Pyari Xaxa finishing a well-placed pass from Jennifer Yeboah.
The second half saw Odisha FC creating several chances, with Lynda Kom Serto coming close on a couple of occasions. But it was Pooja who made the difference, netting her second goal in the 90th minute to give HOPS FC a crucial 3-2 win.
This victory significantly boosted HOPS FC’s chances of avoiding relegation, marking a key moment in their fight to stay in the IWL 2024-25. Both teams displayed determination, but HOPS FC’s resilience in the final moments secured them an important three points.