Odisha FC vs. Mohun Bagan Prediction: Odisha sitting at top of table

Odisha FC will go against ATK Mohun Bagan in Gameweek 16 of the Indian Super League at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar. Odisha are sitting at the top of the table with only two defeats in the competition. Who will win? 

In his inaugural season at the helm of Odisha FC, Sergio Lobera has displayed his managerial prowess, propelling the Juggernauts to the summit of the table. The challenge lies in the fact that his team has played one more game than their rivals for the title, emphasizing the crucial need to secure a victory against Mohun Bagan to establish a significant lead over the competition.

While Odisha managed to outclass Mohun Bagan in the AFC Cup this season, the latter is now a reinvigorated unit under Antonio Habas. Lobera must ensure precise tactics and peak performance from his attacking players, recognizing that winning this match could bring them closer to the coveted ISL Shield. Conversely, a defeat could prove disastrous, potentially loosening their grasp on the race for the Shield.

Amrinder Singh (GK), Amey Ranawade, Narender Gahlot, Carlos Delgado, Jerry Larinzuala, Lalthathanga Khawlhring, Lenny Rodrigues, Cy Goddard, Isak Vanlalruetfela, Roy Krishna, Diego Mauricio

The arrival of Antonio Habas has significantly boosted the Mariners, as they remain undefeated in the last four ISL matches and have secured victories in their past three games. Despite this positive momentum, facing Odisha presents a considerable challenge due to the latter's dominance this season.

For Habas and his team, winning this match is imperative if they aspire to secure the ISL shield for the first time. They must approach this game as if it were an ISL final itself. A draw would maintain the current standings and prevent Mohun Bagan from advancing in the Shield race, while a loss could be detrimental, posing a potentially substantial obstacle for them to claim the top spot by the end of the league stages.

Vishal Kaith (GK), Anwar Ali, Hector Yuste, Subhasish Bose, Deepak Tangri, Manvir Singh, Joni Kauko, Sahal Abdul Samad, Liston Colaco, Dimitri Petratos, Jason Cummings

Mohun Bagan has not secured an away win against Odisha in the league since February 2021. Despite the home team having played more games than many other teams, they boast one of the most formidable offensive lineups in the league, led by Roy Krishna and Diego Mauricio. Odisha, fueled by these key players, can contend with any opponent. The two teams appear closely matched, and there is a possibility that the match could end in a stalemate.