(Football news) Odisha and Chennaiyin FC’s hopes for qualification in the semi-finals of the Indian Super League were dealt with a massive blow after the two sides drew 2-2 at the Tilak Maidan on Wednesday. While there is still a mathematical possibility of the two sides qualifying, it’s unrealistic that both the teams will make it to the semi-finals.

Chennaiyin FC opened the scoring through Rahim Ali (2nd) but Javi Hernandez (18th) scored the equaliser for Odisha FC and Jonathas Cristian (51st) helped the side get the lead. However, Chennaiyin found the equaliser through Nerijus Valskis to ensure the points were shared between the two teams. The result means Chennaiyin FC are in eighth place with 20 points from 17 matches while Odisha FC are in seventh spot with 22 points from 17 matches.

Chennaiyin FC took the lead through Rahim Ali inside the first two minutes after he capitalised on a freekick by Nerijus Valskis. The Marina Machans dominated the first 15 minutes but couldn’t extend their lead despite their performance. Odisha FC’s Javi Hernandez equalised in the 18th minute against the run of play after playing a one-two with Jonathas Cristian and curling the ball with his left foot into the back of the net. 

After the equaliser, Chennaiyin FC maintained possession to exert control over the game and Ariel Borysiuk’s effort from outside the box went over the bar. He had another opportunity before half-time but failed to find the target yet again. Just before the referee blew the whistle for half-time, Debjit Majumder was forced to make a good save from Jonathas as Odisha FC looked to take the lead. 

Odisha FC dominated proceedings in the second half and Jonathas finally found the back of the net in the 51st minute after scoring from a rebound which the Chennaiyin FC defenders failed to clear. However, Nerijus Valskis scored the equaliser in the 69th minute with a powerful header from a cross which was placed in the bottom corner. Chennaiyin FC will face Jamshedpur FC in their next match on Sunday, 20th February at the Tilak Maidan while Odisha FC will take on Bengaluru FC on Monday, 21st February at the GMC Athletic Stadium.

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