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.