Odisha FC’s Historic Debut in the AFC Women’s Champions League 2024-25

By
Teja Devathoti
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11
Odisha FC

The football world is abuzz with excitement as Odisha FC, the reigning Indian Women’s League (IWL) champions, prepares to make its mark in the inaugural edition of the AFC Women’s Champions League.

Odisha FC’s road to AFC Women’s Champions League

Odisha FC secured its spot in the AFC Women’s Champions League by clinching the IWL title for the 2023-24 season. Their journey from the domestic league to the continental stage is a testament to their hard work, talent, and determination.

Drawn in Group B of the preliminary rounds, Odisha FC faces stiff competition. Their first match is against Lion City Sailors from Singapore at the Prince Mohammed Stadium in Jordan. Next week, they take on Jordan’s Etihad Club at the same venue. These encounters will determine their fate in the tournament.

To progress to the group stage, Odisha FC must top their preliminary group. If successful, they will enter Group C, where they’ll battle Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan), Ho Chi Minh City FC (Vietnam), and Taichung Blue Whale (Chinese Taipei).

The top two teams from each of the three groups, along with two of the best third-placed teams, will advance to the quarter-finals. The knockout stages kick off in March 2025, culminating in the semi-finals and final—a single-leg contest at a centralized venue in May next year.

Odisha FC’s participation marks a historic moment for Indian women’s football. They follow in the footsteps of Gokulam Kerala, who represented India in the previous season, finishing second in their group.

Led by a talented squad, Odisha FC boasts players like Lynda Kom, Pyari Xaxa, and Jennifer Kankam. Their goalkeepers, defenders, and midfielders are ready to leave their mark on the continental stage.

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