Sreenidi Deccan FC hopes to end I-League season on high

Despite setbacks in previous two seasons, Deccan Warriors captain Faysal Shayesteh renew focus on promotion.

Hyderabad: Sreenidi Deccan FC has embarked on another campaign in the I-League, aiming to finally clinch the championship after falling short in the last two seasons. With hopes high, the team has had a mixed start to the 2024-25 season, losing 3-2 in their opener to Gokulam Kerala FC but bouncing back with a 2-1 win over Churchill Brothers FC on Sunday. A standout moment from the victory was skipper Faysal Shayesteh’s precise free-kick in the 23rd minute, a statement of his leadership on the pitch.

Reflecting on the team’s first win, Shayesteh expressed relief and determination. “It was good to get the first three points of the season. We wanted to win our first game, but it didn’t happen. It was a false start, but our reaction was good against Churchill. Now, we focus on the next match against Rajasthan United,” he said.

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Shayesteh, in his third season with the Hyderabad-based club, also weighed in on the shift in coaching leadership. Having played under Carlos Vas Pinto for two years, he now works with Rui Amorim. “Both Amorim and Pinto emphasise building from the back, possession-based play, and dominating on the pitch,” he noted. “The main difference is their experience. Pinto has coached outside Europe, while Amorim is navigating his first stint abroad. Despite this, their philosophies are nearly identical.”

The Afghan midfielder remains motivated despite two near misses, with the team finishing 10 points behind Punjab FC in 2022-23 and just four points behind Mohammedan SC in 2023-24. “Promotion is our goal. Staying motivated is easy because we were so close the last two seasons. Seeing Punjab succeed in the ISL and Mohammedan participating shows that we could’ve been there too. The margins were very small, and that drives us to try again.”

Shayesteh analyses the league’s growing parity and the rising quality of football across teams. He anticipates even tougher competition this season compared to the last two, where the battle for the top spot primarily involved only two teams. “This time, it’s going to be harder. Yesterday’s match against Churchill Brothers showed they are a solid side. Teams like Inter Kashi, Real Kashmir, Gokulam, and us are all contenders. It’s hard to predict who’ll top the table.”

Shayesteh also praised Sreenidi Deccan’s management for their vision and steady progress. “Since I joined, the management has been focused on building a strong foundation. The squad’s quality has improved, and the standards have risen. They’re investing in facilities, engaging with communities, and supporting their academy. Now, it’s time for the team to show it on the pitch.”

For Shayesteh and his teammates, the journey continues with a renewed focus on overcoming past setbacks and making their mark in Indian football.