Indian Super League, Round 6

Here are a few talking points from Hyderabad’s tough clash against league leaders, Mumbai City FC that resulted in our first defeat in the Indian Super League 2020-21.

First Defeat

Manolo Marquez’ men had a frustrating day at office as they faced their first defeat of the Indian Super League 2020-21 season against Mumbai City on Sunday. Although Hyderabad put up a tough fight, their failure to capitalise on some key opportunities in the attacking third hurt them. The opportunities came at moments that could have altered the course of the game and is something the Coach will want to address ahead of the next game.

Missed Chances

Although Manolo Marquez agreed it was a fair result on the day in his post-match press conference, the HFC faithful would definitely be looking at the chances that went begging. Yasir came the closest in the first-half but somehow headed wide from six yards out from Akash Mishra’s inch-perfect delivery.

Goals change games, and the timing of that miss, just before the break, would’ve given a massive boost to the HFC squad and definitely changed the course of the second half. There were several more half chances in a grittier second half, which were blocked by a tough MCFC defence led by Mourtada Fall. Despite the failure to get a goal for only the second time this season, Marquez’s men will take positives from the fact that they continued pushing without losing the zeal in the final third.

An Improved Second Half Show

After conceding in the first half for the second consecutive game, and going a goal down for the third game running, Hyderabad FC showed their character in not going down mentally against a strong side. Although the team didn’t create enough clear chances in the first half, the second period produced a much-improved show from the hosts. Attacks from either flank by Liston Colaco, Akash Mishra and Halicharan Narzary created some close moments. Despite being two goals down, Marquez’s men continued pushing till the very last minute, and this fighting spirit will be something that will help the team in the upcoming games.

7-Match Unbeaten Run

Until our game on Sunday, HFC was on the club’s longest undefeated run of seven games stretching from the last season. We ended our debut season on a great note with a draw against Jamshedpur and an emphatic 5-1 win against NorthEast United, along with a few players that are key members of Manolo Marquez’s side. HFC carried forward the improved show to the new season with more zeal and determination. This season so far has seen matured performances from the Indian players who have played an instrumental role in both our victories and 3 hard-fought draws.