Bhubaneswar(Odisha): Odisha FC secured a hard-fought point against NorthEast United FC after the two sides played out a goalless draw in their MG Indian Super League encounter at the Kalinga Stadium on Saturday.

The Kalinga Warriors showed defensive resilience throughout the contest, with goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari producing crucial saves to keep the Highlanders at bay. The visitors had opportunities to break the deadlock, but Odisha FC stood firm to earn a clean sheet in front of the home supporters.

NorthEast United FC threatened early in the fifth minute when Nikola Ninković connected with a cross from Jithin MS, only for Tiwari to make an important save. Odisha FC responded soon after as Everton Nascimento tried his luck from distance, sending his effort wide of the target.

The visitors continued to test the Odisha FC defence, with Alaaeddine Ajaraie getting an opportunity after finding space inside the final third. However, Tiwari was equal to the task once again, denying the Moroccan forward and ensuring the score remained level at the break.

Odisha FC looked to find greater attacking impetus after the interval, with head coach TG Purushothaman making changes to freshen up the side. Nandhakumar Sekar was introduced for Jeremy Zohminghlua in the 67th minute, before Rahim Ali and Manuel Molina came on for Mahmoud Eid and Giorgi Aburjania as the hosts searched for a breakthrough.

NorthEast United FC also made attacking substitutions in an attempt to turn the contest in their favour, bringing on Parthib Gogoi and Ethyan González. Despite the changes, neither side managed to find the decisive touch in the final third.

Deep into added time, the visitors were awarded a penalty after Stephen Eze was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the area. Ajaraie stepped up from the spot, but his effort struck the woodwork, allowing Odisha FC to win a point with a clean sheet as the referee brought the contest to a close.

The result sees the Kalinga Warriors take a valuable point from the encounter, with the team’s defensive organisation and Tiwari’s assured performance proving crucial on the night.

Odisha FC will now turn their attention to their next fixture as they look to build on the performance and continue their campaign in the MG Indian Super League.