Football

Punjab FC Maintain Perfect Start in ISL 2024-25 with 2-0 Victory over Hyderabad FC

Punjab FC continued their unbeaten run in the 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) season, securing a 2-0 win over Hyderabad FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday. Goals from Ezequiel Vidal and Filip Mrzljak ensured a third consecutive victory for the home side, keeping them at the top of the league standings.

The game began with both teams taking a cautious approach, as nerves were evident in the opening ten minutes. Hyderabad FC showed early promise when Ramhlunchhunga launched a powerful shot from 35 yards, forcing Punjab goalkeeper Ravi Kumar into action. However, this near-miss seemed to spark Punjab FC into life.

The breakthrough moment came in the 17th minute when Hyderabad’s Leander D’Cunha misplaced a pass deep in his own half. Filip Mrzljak pounced on the error and fired a shot on goal, but Hyderabad’s Arshdeep Singh produced a crucial save to deny him. Despite the setback, Punjab continued to pile on the pressure, with Vidal orchestrating several dangerous moves.

Vidal’s influence was evident as he set up chances for Mrzljak and Ivan Novoselec, but both failed to capitalize. The Argentine playmaker then took matters into his own hands, unleashing a long-range effort in the 27th minute that narrowly missed the target. Punjab’s persistence paid off in the 35th minute when Vidal scored a spectacular free-kick, curling the ball past Arshdeep Singh to give the hosts a well-deserved lead.

Hyderabad FC tried to regroup in the second half, pressing hard for an equalizer. Ramhlunchhunga and Parag Shrivas both came close, but Punjab’s defense remained resolute. Despite dominating possession, Hyderabad struggled to find a way through the solid backline of Punjab FC.

Punjab’s head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis introduced youngsters Leon Augustine and Ricky Shabong in the 59th minute to inject fresh energy. Ricky nearly made an immediate impact, missing a close-range header shortly after coming on. The home side doubled their lead in the 71st minute when Mrzljak, after a swift counterattack, calmly finished a rebound after Mushaga Bakenga’s blocked shot fell into his path.

Hyderabad’s night went from bad to worse when Leander D’Cunha received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Ricky Shabong in the 78th minute, reducing the visitors to ten men. Punjab FC comfortably saw out the remainder of the match to claim all three points.

This win solidifies Punjab FC’s strong start to the season, while Hyderabad FC will need to regroup after suffering their second defeat.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

India’s Junior Men Clinch Bronze with Gritty 2-1 Win Over Australia in Four Nations Tournament

The Indian junior men’s hockey team wrapped up their campaign at the Four Nations Tournament… Read More

June 26, 2025

Suryakumar Yadav Undergoes Successful Sports Hernia Surgery, Eyes Return for Bangladesh Tour

India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has successfully undergone surgery for a sports hernia in his… Read More

June 26, 2025

Golden Glove Winner Jaspreet Singh Joins Bengaluru FC in Key Summer Move

Bengaluru FC have taken a decisive step toward rebuilding their squad by signing goalkeeper Jaspreet… Read More

June 26, 2025

Ravi Shastri says opening Test loss against England is a tough pill to swallow for India

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri believes the opening Test loss against England is a… Read More

June 26, 2025

Varun Aaron says England batters’ approach made Jasprit Bumrah desperate for wickets in 2nd innings of 1st Test

Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron believes England batters were able to find a way… Read More

June 26, 2025

Varun Aaron says Karun Nair will be disappointed with his opening Test performance against England

Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron believes Karun Nair will be disappointed after he failed… Read More

June 26, 2025