FC Goa and Odisha FC Set for Crucial Clash in ISL Showdown

In an exciting upcoming clash in the Indian Super League, FC Goa looks to rebound from their first loss of the season against Odisha FC. Meanwhile, Sporting Club Delhi aims for back-to-back victories against NorthEast United FC. Both matches promise high stakes as teams strive to improve their standings in the league. With key players and tactical strategies at play, fans can expect thrilling football action. Read on for a detailed preview of these crucial fixtures.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 9, 2026, 23:44 IST

Upcoming Matches in the Indian Super League

FC Goa aims to recover from their first defeat of the season as they prepare to face Odisha FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 at the PJN Stadium in Goa on Friday, April 10, 2026, with the match kicking off at 19:30 IST. Earlier in the day, Sporting Club Delhi will seek their second consecutive win after achieving their first victory of the season against NorthEast United FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati, starting at 17:00.

NorthEast United FC vs Sporting Club Delhi

NorthEast United FC returns to their home ground after a 20-day break, looking to bounce back from a 1-4 loss to Odisha FC last month. Sporting Club Delhi arrives in Guwahati with hopes of maintaining their momentum after their maiden ISL win. Currently sitting in 12th place with five points, SC Delhi trails NorthEast United by just one point. A win would elevate them to eight points, allowing them to surpass the home team.

Historically, SC Delhi, including their previous identities as Hyderabad FC and FC Pune City, has a slight edge with 10 wins against NorthEast United's seven, along with five draws. NorthEast United's head coach, Juan Pedro Benali, acknowledged the tactical prowess of SC Delhi, stating, "They play good football with a clear system and fast, skilled players. They are highly motivated after their last win, while we are looking to recover from our defeat. It won't be an easy match." Forward Ankith Padmanabhan emphasized the team's determination to secure three points, noting, "The morale is high, and we are just one win away from regaining our rhythm."

SC Delhi's Assistant Coach Noel Joseph embraced the high stakes of the match, asserting, "Every game is a chance to climb the table. Our recent performances have been strong, and we aim to set higher standards." However, SC Delhi's head coach, Tomasz Tchórz, will miss the match due to suspension after receiving a red card in their last game against Kerala Blasters. Joseph added, "NorthEast United is well-organized and creative on set pieces, but we are focused on securing three points." Augustine Lalrochana from SC Delhi echoed the importance of winning to improve their standings, stating, "We need to win every match and are working hard for the next game."

FC Goa vs Odisha FC

In the evening match, FC Goa will return to Fatorda looking to respond after a 0-2 loss to Bengaluru FC that ended their unbeaten streak. Currently in seventh place with 10 points, head coach Manolo Márquez's team must convert their four draws into wins to climb the table. A victory would bring them to 13 points. Odisha FC, on the other hand, is aiming to recover from a 0-1 defeat to league leaders Mumbai City FC. Despite a strong defensive performance led by Carlos Delgado and key saves from goalkeeper Amrinder Singh, they conceded a late goal. With five points from five matches, Odisha FC seeks to improve their position in the standings.

FC Goa has historically dominated this matchup, winning 15 out of 24 ISL encounters against Odisha FC, who have only three victories and six draws. The last meeting in February 2025 saw Goa triumph 2-1. Reflecting on their recent performance, Márquez expressed disappointment with their start against Bengaluru, stating, "You can't concede early against experienced teams. Even with more possession, they controlled the game. I believe we can still have a good season." With six matches left, he noted the importance of giving opportunities to other players while still aiming for higher positions.

Márquez praised Odisha FC's resilience, stating, "They are well-organized defensively and competing well despite initial concerns about their preparation. They have experienced players and will be a tough opponent. The first team to score will have a significant advantage." Young prospect Bob Jackson Raj shared insights on the internal competition within the squad, emphasizing the importance of training and waiting for opportunities.

Odisha FC's head coach, T.G. Purushothaman, expressed pride in his team's efforts, stating, "These boys have shown brilliance and are giving their all. We are focusing on the present and preparing for the next match, emphasizing all aspects of the game." Midfielder Rohit Kumar highlighted the team's resilience despite a short preparation period, noting, "We are determined to deliver in any situation and have developed since the first game." With crucial points at stake, all four teams are eager to secure victories as the season approaches its final stretch.