Odisha FC Women are set to make their mark on the Asian stage as they kick off their AFC Women’s Champions League group stage campaign on Sunday, October 6th. Their first opponent? The formidable Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies from Japan. The match is scheduled for 1:30 PM IST at Thong Nhat Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and can be watched live on FanCode in India.
Urawa Red Diamonds come into the match with a strong record, having won three out of their last five matches. Their attacking lineup, led by Shimada M., Fujisaki S., Shiokoshi Y., Tsunoda F., and Seike K., poses a significant threat, especially in the final third.
However, Odisha FC Women aren’t intimidated. They arrive at the tournament with a winning mindset, having secured their spot in the group stage with a convincing 4-1 victory over Singapore’s Lion City Sailors and a hard-fought 2-1 win against Jordan’s Etihad Club.
Despite facing an injury in the second game, Lynda Kom’s consecutive goals were a highlight, along with Shreya’s stellar goalkeeping performance. Grace will miss the game due to a red card.
At the pre-match press conference on Saturday, Odisha FC Women’s head coach Crispin Chettri and goalkeeper Shreya Hooda shared their thoughts and excitement for the upcoming clash.
“The opponent team is very strong, they are champions,” said Chettri, acknowledging the strength of Urawa Red Diamonds. “We come into this tournament with an open mind, ready to learn and grow. As individuals, as a team, and for Indian football as a whole. We are glad to be here and take away valuable knowledge from this experience.”
Shreya Hooda echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the team’s pride and preparation. “I’m very happy to be part of this tournament, especially as the first Indian women’s team to participate,” she stated. “We feel proud to be here, and we are well-prepared. Our focus is on taking it one game at a time. It feels good to face such a high-caliber team like Urawa. We are all set for tomorrow’s game.”
Odisha FC Women will be looking to make a strong statement in their opening game against the tough Japanese side, while simultaneously representing India on the global stage. This is a historic moment for Indian women’s football, and the team will be striving to make the nation proud.
