Punjab FC 2-0 Hyderabad FC: Detailed Match Report – Match 13

In an action-packed Indian Super League (ISL) clash on October 14, 2024, Punjab FC secured a convincing 2-0 win over Hyderabad FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. This victory allowed Punjab FC to climb to the top of the league standings, extending their unbeaten streak and putting pressure on their rivals. Hyderabad FC, on the other hand, had a rough day, ending the game with ten men after Leander D’Cunha’s sending off in the second half.

First Half: Dominance by Hyderabad, but Punjab Strikes First

Hyderabad FC started the match with intent, dominating possession and controlling the midfield. Their strategy was clear: keep the ball, build through the flanks, and look for gaps in Punjab’s defense. However, despite their strong start, they failed to make significant inroads in the final third. Bartholomew Ogbeche and Joel Chianese led the charge for Hyderabad, but their efforts were thwarted by Punjab’s disciplined backline, which was marshaled effectively by Nikhil Prabhu.

In contrast, Punjab FC initially sat back, absorbing pressure and looking for opportunities to counter-attack. Their patience paid off in the 35th minute when a controversial free kick decision went in their favor. Ezequiel Vidal stepped up and delivered a beautifully struck free kick that left Hyderabad’s goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh flat-footed. While some questioned the referee’s call, the goal stood, giving Punjab a 1-0 lead against the run of play.

Hyderabad continued to press after the goal, but Punjab’s defense held firm. Hyderabad’s best chance in the first half came from a Chianese cross, which was met by Ogbeche, but his header sailed wide. The half ended with Punjab leading 1-0, much to the frustration of Hyderabad FC, who had been the better team for most of the half but lacked the cutting edge to finish their chances.

Second Half: Tactical Shift and Punjab’s Control

The second half saw a more balanced affair as Punjab FC adjusted their tactics. Instead of sitting back, they started pressing higher up the pitch, disrupting Hyderabad’s build-up play. Punjab’s Filip Mrzljak and Nikhil Prabhu began to control the midfield, cutting off Hyderabad’s supply lines and creating space for their own attackers to exploit.

Hyderabad’s response was to bring on fresh legs in the form of Mohammad Yasir and Abdul Rabeeh, hoping their pace and creativity would unlock Punjab’s defense. However, Punjab’s backline, led by Hassan Noor, remained resolute.

The breakthrough for Punjab came in the 71st minute, and it was a defensive nightmare for Hyderabad. Arshdeep Singh and his center-back Alex Saji miscommunicated during a high ball into the box, allowing Filip Mrzljak to pounce and tap the ball into an open net. The goal was a result of Hyderabad’s defensive disorganization, and it gave Punjab a comfortable 2-0 lead with less than 20 minutes to go.

Hyderabad’s Struggles: D’Cunha’s Red Card

As Hyderabad FC pushed forward in search of a way back into the game, their frustrations were compounded when right-back Leander D’Cunha received a second yellow card in the 79th minute for a late challenge on Punjab’s Ricky Shabong. D’Cunha, who had already been cautioned in the first half for a high tackle, was sent off, reducing Hyderabad to ten men for the final stretch of the match.

The sending-off effectively ended Hyderabad’s hopes of a comeback. Punjab FC, now with a numerical advantage, controlled the game with ease. Hyderabad had a couple of late chances, with Ogbeche firing wide from distance, but they never seriously threatened Punjab’s goal.

Tactical Analysis: Punjab’s Discipline vs. Hyderabad’s Struggles

Punjab FC’s victory was a testament to their tactical discipline and ability to capitalize on their opponent’s mistakes. Head coach Staikos Vergetis set his team up to absorb pressure and strike on the counter, and his tactics worked perfectly. Ezequiel Vidal’s goal from the free kick was well-taken, while Filip Mrzljak‘s goal was the result of smart pressing and opportunism.

In contrast, Hyderabad FC’s head coach Tangboi Singto will be left ruing his side’s defensive lapses and lack of composure in the final third. While Hyderabad dominated possession for large spells, they were unable to convert their chances, and their defensive frailties were ruthlessly exploited by Punjab. The red card for D’Cunha only added to Hyderabad’s woes, leaving them with no way back into the game.

Key Performances:

• Ezequiel Vidal (Punjab FC): The Argentine winger was instrumental in Punjab’s win, scoring the opening goal with a sublime free kick. His pace and trickery on the wings caused problems for Hyderabad’s defense throughout the game.
• Filip Mrzljak (Punjab FC): The Croatian midfielder was a commanding presence in midfield, breaking up play and making crucial interceptions. His awareness and poaching ability were evident when he capitalized on the defensive mix-up to score the second goal.
• Nikhil Prabhu (Punjab FC): Prabhu was the unsung hero for Punjab, controlling the midfield and providing excellent cover for his defense. His tactical awareness and ability to break up Hyderabad’s attacks were key to Punjab’s defensive solidity.
• Arshdeep Singh (Hyderabad FC): Despite the loss, Hyderabad’s goalkeeper made several crucial saves, but his miscommunication with his defenders for Punjab’s second goal will be a moment he’ll want to forget.

Conclusion: Punjab’s Rise to the Top

Punjab FC’s 2-0 win over Hyderabad FC was a statement of intent from the Shers, who are now firmly in control at the top of the ISL table. Their ability to absorb pressure and hit teams on the counter makes them a formidable opponent, and with players like Vidal and Mrzljak in form, they look poised for a successful season.

For Hyderabad FC, the loss highlights their defensive issues, which they will need to address if they are to compete for the top spots. Despite their early dominance, their inability to convert chances and defensive errors cost them dearly.

Punjab FC vs Hyderabad FC Match 13 Highlights