ISL: Hyderabad FC get their first point of the campaign

Hyderabad: Hyderabad FC earned their first point of the Indian Super League 2024-25 season with a 0-0 draw against Chennaiyin FC at the rain-soaked GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium on Tuesday.

Battling wet conditions, Chennaiyin took control early on. In the fifth minute, Daniel Chima Chukwu’s header from a set piece was comfortably collected by HFC goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh. Hyderabad got their first chance in the ninth minute. Cy Goddard came close to breaking the deadlock, but his right-footed shot inside the box was blocked following Abdul Rabih’s excellent run down the right flank. Rabih was a constant threat, troubling Chennaiyin left-back Ankit Mukherjee with his quick feet and pace.

In the 35th minute, Chima Chukwu had another chance but failed to hit the target. Moments later, Hyderabad’s Ramlunchunga found space in the box after a well-weighted pass from Rabih, but his shot was saved by Chennaiyin goalkeeper Samik Mitra. The teams went into halftime tied 0-0. Hyderabad started the second half brightly, with Rabih continuing to cause problems down the right. In the 57th minute, Chennaiyin’s Lucas Brambilla tested Arshdeep with a header, but the HFC goalkeeper’s quick reflexes kept the scoreline level.

The game turned around in the 71st minute when Parag Srivas went for his second yellow card. It was Hyderabad’s second red card in as many games, leaving coach Thangboi Singto on the sidelines frustrated.

Despite going into the ring with 10 men, Hyderabad held firm. Centre-back duo Alex Saji and Stefan Sapic stood firm as the home side held on to secure their first point of the season in a tough match.