The winning streak of Odisha FC is continuing. After the Super Cup title, this ISL team drubbed I-League champion (2021-22) Gokulam FC 3-1 in a play-off match at the EMS Corporation Stadium in Kozhikode, Kerala on Saturday. This victory helped Odisha FC seal a spot in AFC Cup group (2023-24) stage for the first time. The team's Brazilian striker Diego Mauricio (18', 31', 53') scored a hat-trick for the ISL team while Farshad Noor (36') scored the solitary goal for the I-League club.

Clifford Miranda who won the Super Cup as an Indian coach for the first time followed by AFC Cup qualification dedicated his memorable success to Odisha FC players, the fans and the owners. While returning Goa from Kozhikode on Sunday, Clifford said, "It was my happiest moment while watching the jubilation among the players, the club's fans after the match. I felt equally happy when I received congratulatory messages and phone calls from the club's top brass. I dedicate this success to all of them."

Clifford however said he has not yet been informed by the club about their next discussion and preparation for the AFC Cup matches, revealed, "I will take a few days' break and then let us see what happens."

Commenting on Saturday's match, Clifford asserted, "The scoreline does not at all say that it was a one-side match. Diego Mauricio utilized the opposition's faults perfectly and scored the goals. He was properly assisted by the team's other players also."