New Delhi, Sep 25: Punjab FC continued their dominant start to the 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) season with a 2-0 win over Hyderabad FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi. This victory, their third in a row, sees them ascend to the top of the league standings, while Hyderabad remains winless, languishing at the bottom.
Punjab FC, coming off back-to-back 2-1 victories against Odisha FC and Chennaiyin FC, once again demonstrated their form and resilience.
The match began with both teams looking to establish early control, and Hyderabad briefly threatened with a chance, only to be denied by Punjab’s resolute defense.
The breakthrough came in the 35th minute when Pulga Vidal unleashed a superb free-kick, curling the ball into the net past Hyderabad’s goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh. This goal provided Punjab with momentum, and they went into halftime leading 1-0.Hyderabad responded strongly in the second half, with Ayush Adhikari nearly leveling the score with a long-range strike that tested Punjab keeper Ravi Kumar. Despite Hyderabad’s efforts, Punjab gradually regained control and continued to push forward.
Their persistence paid off in the 71st minute when Filip Mrzljak scored the second goal with a simple tap-in after a deflected shot from Mushaga Bakenga landed perfectly in his path.
Mrzljak was a key figure throughout the game, contributing to Punjab’s attack and sealing the win with his goal.Hyderabad’s situation worsened in the 79th minute when defender Leander D’Cunha received his second yellow card for a reckless tackle on Ricky Shabong, leaving his team to play the remaining minutes with ten men.
Despite Punjab’s numerical advantage, they missed a few chances to extend their lead further.In the end, Punjab held firm to claim a well-deserved 2-0 victory, solidifying their spot at the top of the ISL table. Hyderabad, on the other hand, remain rooted at the bottom, still in search of their first points of the season as they struggle to find form.With this win, Punjab FC has shown they are a force to be reckoned with this season, while Hyderabad FC faces an uphill battle to revive their campaign.
Punjab FC’s victory over Hyderabad FC not only marked their third consecutive win but also solidified their status as serious contenders in this ISL season. With a commanding performance on both ends of the pitch, they have climbed to the top of the league table, showcasing their transformation from last season’s struggles to becoming a formidable force under new leadership. Pulga Vidal’s stunning free-kick and Filip Mrzljak’s composed finish were a testament to their attacking prowess, while the defense, led by Ravi Kumar in goal, held strong to secure another clean sheet. As Punjab FC builds momentum, their depth, discipline, and tactical awareness will make them tough to beat as the season progresses.
On the other hand, Hyderabad FC faces mounting pressure as they search for their first points of the season. The team’s lack of offensive sharpness and defensive lapses, highlighted by D’Cunha’s red card, signal deeper issues that need addressing if they are to turn their campaign around. (Agencies)
