ISL 2024-25: Punjab FC Struggles with Goal Execution Under Pressure

Hyderabad, March 5 (NationPress) Punjab FC is aiming to secure a crucial three points as they face Hyderabad FC in their second-to-last match of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season, scheduled at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium on Thursday. Head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis attributes the team's struggles with scoring to a lack of quality in the final third and the intense pressure placed on a youthful squad.

The attacking lineup for Punjab will be led by Luka Majcen, the team's top scorer with eight goals, supported by the creative talents of Ezequiel Vidal and Filip Mrzljak, along with the energetic Khaimingthang Lhungdim. Together, this quartet has contributed to 23 goals for the Shers this season. In contrast, the Nizams will lean on the playmaking skills of Andrei Alba and Ramhlunchhunga, alongside the offensive flair of Allan Paulista, as they seek to achieve their fifth victory of the season.

With 24 points from 22 matches, Punjab FC is positioned at 10th place, while Hyderabad FC is in 12th with 17 points. A win for Punjab FC would enhance their standing as they aim to conclude the season on a high note.

“We have struggled to maintain the quality we exhibited at the beginning of the season in the final third. To put it simply, we often lack quality in our transfers. We can get the ball into the box, but converting those opportunities into goals is where we fall short.

“At times, the structure within the box is incorrect. Frequently, due to the presence of many young players, they approach the final third with significant pressure because they are eager to score their first goal, and the team is looking for a win. When working under pressure, execution often suffers,” said Dilmperis during a press conference.

Punjab FC enters this match following a narrow 0-1 defeat against FC Goa in their last home match of the season, while Hyderabad FC faced a 0-2 loss to East Bengal FC in their previous game in Kolkata.

The Shers will draw confidence from their defensive improvements since their last match as they strive to complete a season double over Hyderabad after securing a 2-0 victory in their previous encounter at home, where Ezequiel Vidal and Filip Mrzljak scored. Punjab FC has historically performed well against Hyderabad, boasting two wins and one draw in their previous encounters.

“It has been a long time since we achieved back-to-back wins in the league, and now we have two final opportunities to do so. I appreciate the energy Hyderabad brings to the pitch. We will need to put in more effort than them to claim victory tomorrow,” he added.

With only two matches remaining in the season, Punjab FC is eager to finish on a strong note. A win in Hyderabad would not only help elevate their position in the standings but also uplift their spirits heading into the last match of the season. Conversely, Hyderabad FC will be determined to capitalize on their home advantage and cause an upset.