The first Indian Super League (ISL) 2025–26 match between Odisha FC and recently promoted Inter Kashi FC will take place on Tuesday at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.
Odisha’s season-opening game against Punjab FC on February 16 was postponed, hence this will be their first home game.
In the meantime, Inter Kashi will be looking to capitalize on their strong start after displaying incredible tenacity to secure a 1-1 draw against AIFF Super Cup champions FC Goa in their league debut last week.
“We are not focused on the outcomes,” Odisha FC head coach TG Purushottaman stated prior to their season’s opening game. The outcomes will happen on their own; we are focusing on the performances. We shall focus on our advantages and try to take advantage of their disadvantages. We will accept the difficulties when they arise.
Odisha FC captain Carlos Delgado stated, “The most essential thing is to stay together, be compact, ambitious, and enjoy the training,” in reference to the team’s objectives this season. We have little time, therefore we need to come together as a cohesive team as soon as possible. We shall battle and do everything in our power to prevail.
When the two teams faced off in the AIFF Super Cup 2024, Odisha won 3-0 thanks to goals from Lalthathanga, Diego Maurício, and Puitea.
Antonio López Habas, head coach of Inter Kashi, discussed Tuesday’s game by saying, “Our basic strategy is to develop the club in this division and improve daily. The next match is always the aim, and Odisha is the target this time. Despite the fact that we are not the league favorites, we aim to compete all season long. The players I have determine my style of play. “This is my system, and it will never change,” is not something a coach can declare. No! You have to adjust to your players’ characteristics and circumstances. That is my way of thinking.
“Because the league is so short, we must accomplish things well right away. However, there is not any pressure. We will be competitive in every game if we adhere to the coach’s instructions and carry out our plans effectively. This is Inter Kashi’s debut season in the ISL. Alfred Planas, a forward for Inter Kashi, stated, “We have to concentrate entirely on the things that are dependent upon us.”
Inter Kashi FC will be keen to build on their season’s great start, while Odisha FC will look to kick off their campaign with a dominant home performance.