Indian Super League, Round 13

Hyderabad FC face Jamshedpur in an early kick-off on Sunday. With a chance to strengthen their place in the top-4 Manolo Marquez’s side will look to put in a strong performance and go a step further from their recent results. Ahead of this game, we take a look at the squads, the opponents, the key men and more…

Recap

Round 3: Hyderabad FC 1-1 Jamshedpur FC (Aridane 50’ | Eze 85’)

December 2, Tilak Maidan, Vasco

Hyderabad FC faced Jamshedpur in their first home game of the 2020-21 ISL season and took the lead, just after half-time. Manolo Marquez’s side put in a strong performance throughout the game but a wonder strike from defender Stephen Eze, five minutes from time, meant that both teams shared a point each on that night.

Hyderabad had just three overseas players fit in that game but will hope to start more than three, this time around. The Red Miners have made a couple of additions in Farukh Choudhary from Mumbai City and Seiminlen Doungel from FC Goa to their squad and will hope to put in a stronger performance on Sunday.

Form

Jamshedpur started the season in fine fashion but have now lost four of their last five games, beating Bengaluru in the other. But the fact that they are just four points off a place in the top-4 shows that they have the quality to climb up the points table in the business end of the season.

Hyderabad started 2021 with back to back victories, scoring eight goals in those games against Chennaiyin and NorthEast United. However, they have scored just one goal in the last two games, picking up just two points. They will want to go a step further in this clash between two sides fighting for qualification.

Key Men

Stephen Eze (JFC)

Stephen Eze brings an all-round threat to the match. A robust defender by trade, Eze has not shied away from attempting 21 shots. He has three goals to show for his efforts and has played all 12 matches of Jamshedpur’s campaign so far. His presence at the back will surely make it tough for Hyderabad to create and convert their chances.

Aitor Monroy (JFC)

The Spanish central midfielder is versatile in possession and has an eye for an inviting set-piece delivery. So far in the league, he has three assists to his name. He is also adept with his defensive duties and will look to dictate the game against Hyderabad.

Nerijus Valskis (JFC)

The Lithuanian-hitman was in fine form at the start of the season but has not been at his best in recent games. HFC Head Coach believes that he is the most complete striker in the league and keeping him quiet could crucial to his side’s chances in this tie.

Lluis Sastre (HFC)

Since coming back from an injury, Sastre has reinvented Hyderabad’s attack, popping up with a key pass and inviting crosses to his attackers. He can control the tempo of the game and could be crucial to HFC’s chances in this tie.

Akash Mishra (HFC)

The young full-back has been in fine form this season for Hyderabad. He has rarely been dribbled past and keeps a smart check on the wingers. Mishra also does well to help the team’s attack from the left, often found delivering crosses and creating chances.

Liston Colaco (HFC)

Liston Colaco has hit the ground running this season, with two goals and three assists. He has proven to be a game-changer from the bench as well as when he starts. With his energy and direct approach, he could be a real threat against Owen Coyle’s side on Sunday.