HFC Interim Coach Shameel Chembakath speaks to the media ahead of #HFCPFC
Hyderabad: Hyderabad FC gear up to take on Punjab FC in the Indian Super League this Thursday,
The Nawabs are currently unbeaten in the league at the Gachibowli Stadium since the turn of the year and will look to extend the run when they welcome Punjab to the Maidaan.
Hyderabad FC Interim Coach Shameel Chembakath addressed the media in the pre-match press conference ahead of this game.
Here is what he had to say
On the game against Punjab…
It is great to be back playing here at our home. We have an unbeaten streak and playing against Punjab tomorrow is another chance for us to prove ourselves. The players are ready and focused and need to show our passion, courage and unity. We need to make sure we give our everything and try our best tomorrow.
💪 Hard at work before taking on Punjab!#TheNawabs 💛🖤 pic.twitter.com/nV49y6aDNX
— Hyderabad FC (@HydFCOfficial) March 4, 2025
On the team dropping points from errors…
In the second phase of the league, we did really well in a few games till the 70th and the 80th minute but then conceded a goal late. We’ve been talking to the players about this and we know we need to work on it individually and collectively too.
Game management is very important. How mature you are on the pitch, how you want to play when you are leading and when you are trailing are all very important. Of course, the focus will be on giving our best and reducing any errors.
On the unbeaten streak and playing at Gachibowli…
Every game we play, home or away, the aim is to always win. But playing at home, it is different. We feel more confident playing a game here at the Gachibowli and the team is very positive about tomorrow’s game.
We try not to think too much about previous results (away from home) and are fully focused on the game in coming up, like always.
👊 Back at home with the Yellow and Black!
🆚️ Punjab FC
🗓️ Thursday, 6th March
🏟️ Gachibowli Stadium
📍Hyderabad
🕢 7:30pm IST
🎟 TICKETS 👉 https://t.co/obFGH6mfox
📢 Use code HFC50 for a special discount#HFCPFC #TheNawabs 💛🖤 pic.twitter.com/6msZ96scKs— Hyderabad FC (@HydFCOfficial) March 5, 2025
On the opponents…
Punjab have not been on a great run recently but they are a strong side on their day. We just need to focus on ourselves and stick to our game plan. The message is very clear. We need to be solid in our defence and play with discipline.
On the fitness and prep for the Punjab game…
Everyone in the squad is fit now. I have to appreciate the medical team and the technical staff for this. It also helps us concentrate only on our strengths in the training sessions. The players know and understand their roles. They know how to tackle the challenges in this sure. They know we have to create chances, make the most of our opportunities and put in a strong fight.
Shameel Chembakath 
