ISL: Hyderabad FC Seeks to Break Five-Match Winless Streak Against League Leaders Mohun Bagan SG

Kolkata, Jan 1 (NationPress) Mohun Bagan Super Giant will take on Hyderabad FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 this Thursday at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant is currently at the top of the points table, boasting 29 points from 13 matches, while Hyderabad FC finds itself struggling in the 12th position, having garnered only eight points from the same number of games. Mohun Bagan Super Giant enters this matchup with the momentum of four wins in their last five matches, whereas Hyderabad FC has faced defeat in four out of their last five encounters, managing only one draw.

This marks the 14th ISL clash between the two teams, with Mohun Bagan Super Giant eager to maintain their dominance over Hyderabad FC. The Mariners have remained unbeaten in their last five ISL meetings with Hyderabad FC (3 wins, 2 draws), successfully keeping clean sheets in all of those contests.

The two teams have exhibited contrasting performances this season. Mohun Bagan Super Giant has been the most reliable team in the league, averaging 24.1 touches inside the opponent's box per match—the highest in the league. In contrast, Hyderabad FC has struggled offensively, posting the lowest average at 15.4 touches per game.

Mohun Bagan has triumphed in their last five home games in the ISL, matching their longest winning streak in the competition. Therefore, it will be a significant challenge for the visitors to operate cohesively, as the Mariners are comfortable in their home environment and have checked all necessary boxes.

The Mariners lead the league in clean sheets (6) and have conceded the fewest goals (13) of all teams. Their defense includes player Asish Rai, who ranks fifth in the league for interceptions (24), playing a crucial role in their defensive success.

Hyderabad FC has not scored in their last two away matches. Should they fail to find the back of the net against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, it would mark their longest scoreless streak within a single season.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant head coach Jose Molina emphasized that the Mariners are not overly concerned with Hyderabad FC's position in the points table.

“Of course, we are at the top of the table, and Hyderabad FC is lower, but that doesn’t mean it will be easy. We must work very hard and perform well for the full 90 minutes,” Molina stated.

Hyderabad FC interim head coach Shameel Chembakath highlighted the areas needing improvement for his team ahead of the upcoming match.

“We will focus on controlling the game’s tempo and being patient. We need to be sharper offensively and defensively as well,” he added.