After a morale-boosting 2-1 away victory over Kerala Blasters FC before the FIFA International break, HFC are eager to maintain their momentum.
Published Date – 24 November 2024, 10:20 PM
HFC head coach Thangboi Singto (left) and forward Allan Paulista in Hyderabad on Sunday.
Hyderabad: Indian Super League (ISL) action returns to the GMC Balayogi Stadium in Hyderabad on Monday as Hyderabad FC (HFC) face Odisha FC. After a morale-boosting 2-1 away victory over Kerala Blasters FC before the FIFA International break, HFC are eager to maintain their momentum.
Speaking ahead of the match, Hyderabad FC head coach Thangboi Singto expressed satisfaction with the team’s recent performances. “The win against Kerala Blasters was a big positive for us. We’re looking to carry that rhythm forward despite the long break, which can sometimes disrupt continuity. However, the break allowed us to rest, analyse our opponents and prepare well,” he said.
Hyderabad FC will be aiming for their third win in four games as they take on the ninth-placed Juggernauts, who have struggled for form and remain winless in their last three fixtures. Despite Odisha FC’s position on the table, Singto was cautious, highlighting the strength and experience of their opposition. “Odisha have a highly accomplished coach in Sergio Lobera, who has previously won the league. Their squad features some of the league’s best foreign players like Roy Krishna, Diego Mauricio, Hugo Boumous, Ahmed Jahouh, Carlos Delgado and Mourtada Sergine Fall. It’s going to be a tough game, but we’re prepared,” he added.
The two teams have faced each other 10 times in the ISL. Hyderabad and Odisha have won four and five games respectively, and one match resulted in a draw. For Lobera’s side, the season has been underwhelming thus far, with nine points from eight matches. If Hyderabad score on Monday, it will mark the second time since the 2020-21 season that Odisha have conceded in each of their first nine ISL matches. For Lobera, one of the league’s most brilliant tacticians, it’s a record he will be eager to correct.
Meanwhile, Hyderabad FC’s campaign has shown promising signs after a difficult previous season. They have managed two wins and a draw in seven matches, collecting seven points. Currently placed 11th, HFC trail sixth-placed Punjab FC by just five points, keeping their playoff aspirations alive.
Singto emphasised the team’s growth this season. “The perception of Hyderabad FC has changed. Last season, teams took us lightly, but that’s no longer the case. We’ve built a strong squad with good bench strength. Our focus is to secure a win against Odisha and climb up the table,” he concluded.
