Punjab FC clinched a crucial 2-0 victory over Hyderabad FC in their third game of the Indian Super League (ISL) season, catapulting the Shers to the summit of the points table. On an evening characterized by lackluster finishing, it was a moment of sheer brilliance from Ezequiel Vidal that ignited Punjab FC’s charge towards victory. The Argentine’s dazzling skill from a direct free-kick broke the deadlock at the 35th-minute mark, earning the Shers the lead they would carry confidently into halftime.
The game’s initial phases were marked by intense midfield battles and probing attacks from both sides, neither team finding the clinical touch needed to convert opportunities into goals. The Shers’ fans were becoming restless, sensing the tension as Hyderabad’s defense stood impenetrable. That changed in the 35th minute. Vidal, standing over the ball 25 yards from goal, executed a masterful curling left-footer that soared past Hyderabad’s keeper Arshdeep Singh. The ball rippled the net, igniting roars from the home supporters and providing the much-needed breakthrough for Punjab FC.
Punjab’s Croatian midfielder, Filip Mrzljak, hailed Vidal’s effort as “incredible”. Sharing his thoughts with IANS, Mrzljak admitted, “From my vantage point, I initially thought it was a goalkeeper’s error, but it turned out to be an exceedingly well-placed shot. It was an exquisite piece of craftsmanship that any forward would be proud of.”
The Argentine’s free-kick was not just a beautiful goal; it was a morale-booster for Punjab FC, propelling them to maintain their momentum throughout the match. Despite being ahead, the Shers dominated the second half, pestering Hyderabad’s defense with relentless attacks. However, the finishing touch evaded them repeatedly, a recurring theme that head coach Staikos Vergetis will likely address during training.
As the game progressed into the 71st minute, Punjab’s persistence paid off once again. A brilliantly orchestrated move saw Nihal, the dynamic winger, feed the ball to Norwegian striker Lasse Bakenga inside the box. Although Bakenga’s initial shot was thwarted by Hyderabad’s vigilant defense, the rebound fell kindly for Mrzljak.
. Demonstrating composure and quick reflexes, Mrzljak slotted the ball into an empty net, doubling Punjab FC’s lead and securing their third consecutive victory of the season.
Post-match, Mrzljak expressed his concerns over the upcoming break in the league. “It’s merely a three-week hiatus in theory, but in reality, it disrupts our rhythm significantly. When a team is in good form, you’d rather keep playing than pause. I want to continue scoring goals and securing wins for the team,” the midfielder remarked.
This match not only underlined Punjab FC’s tactical prowess but also showcased individual flair, particularly in Vidal’s remarkable goal and Mrzljak’s composed finish. Ezequiel Vidal’s free-kick is expected to be remembered as one of the standout moments of the season, demonstrating why set-pieces can be game-changers in football.
Reports suggest that this victory places Punjab FC in a strategic position moving forward, with both fans and pundits optimistic about their prospects in the league. Their next fixture is scheduled for October 18, where they will travel to face Bengaluru FC. This interval may be seen as an opportunity for players to refresh, but the concern remains whether it might also fracture their current momentum.
Despite dominating the game against Hyderabad, coach Staikos Vergetis will be aware of the areas needing refinement – primarily their finishing in the final third. The team’s defensive solidity and midfield coordination have been commendable, but converting their dominance into goals will be key as the season progresses.
On the other side, Hyderabad FC will need to regroup and analyze their shortcomings from the match, focusing on tightening their defense and improving ball distribution. Punjab’s assertive strategy and capability to exploit set-pieces laid the groundwork for their victory, an approach other teams might look to emulate or counter in forthcoming fixtures.
In closing, Punjab FC’s formidable performance, accentuated by Vidal’s incredible free-kick and the cohesive effort by the team, offers a promising outlook as the ISL season unfolds. The Shers have shown they are a force to be reckoned with, setting the stage for enthralling matches ahead as they strive to maintain their top position on the points table.
