ISL: Hyderabad FC ready for first home clash

Hyderabad FC aim to break their winless run as they face Chennaiyin FC at GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium, Hyderabad on Tuesday.

Hyderabad: Hyderabad FC are set to host their first home game of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 campaign, facing Chennaiyin FC at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium, Hyderabad on Tuesday.

After a disappointing start to the season with back-to-back losses —0-3 to Bengaluru FC and 0-2 to Punjab FC— HFC are keen to turn the tide and secure their first points on the board.

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Ahead of the match, HFC head coach Thangboi Singto, emphasised the importance of consistency. “In terms of preparation, the players have responded very well. We had good phases in the last two matches, but our focus is on keeping the consistency right from the start to the final whistle,” Singto remarked.

Hyderabad and Chennaiyin have faced each other 10 times in ISL history, with each team claiming four wins and two matches ending in a draw. HFC will look to draw inspiration from their last encounter with Chennaiyin, where they secured a 1-0 win in March — their only victory in a challenging previous season.

However, Singto is well aware of the improvements made by their opponents. “They have strengthened in every department since our last match against them. Chennaiyin have a solid group of both foreign and Indian players. I expect a tougher game this time,” the head coach said.

Despite a difficult season last year, one bright spot for Hyderabad was the emergence of defender Alex Saji. His performances earned him a new contract, keeping him at the club until 2027, and he has been named the club’s captain this season. “I am very grateful to the management for showing their faith in me. I’ve played under experienced leaders like Joao Victor, who captained the side all these years and from whom I have learned a lot,” the 24-year-old said.

HFC’s hope for improvement rests on new signings, particularly Serbian defender Stefan Sapic, who is expected to bring much-needed stability to the backline. Singto remains optimistic about the squad’s future. “With Stefan coming in, we’ll have more solidity at the back. We also have a few more foreign players joining, which will make us more competitive as the season progresses,” he concluded.