Hyderabad FC interim head coach Shameel Chembakath was delighted after a goalless draw against Mumbai City FC at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium, Hyderabad in the ongoing Indian Super League on Wednesday.
The Nawabs had 35.4% possession and took a solitary shot on target. On the other hand, Mumbai City FC took eight shots on target but the hosts were able to keep them at bay.
Chembakath admitted that they weren’t at their absolute best in the first half but they came up with an improved show in the second show.
“It was a very hard-fought match. I knew Mumbai City FC would be a tough match. I think this is one of the toughest matches I played in the season. They have an attacking threat, and our defensive organization should be more solid. I think the players did a good job,” Chembakath said in the post-match press conference.
Chembakath added Edmilson Correia and Joseph Sunny in place of Cy Goddard and Ramhlunchhunga. Both strikers had their chances in the second half but could not grab their opportunities.
“We struggled a bit in the first half, and in the second half we had some changes in the team that did well in the attacking part. We created chances but still, we need to improve our final moments to finish the goal that is more important,” he shared.
“I feel that we did defend well, and the message was clear to them at the beginning of the match. In the second half, we needed to control the game because we couldn’t just go and press and concede the goals. So, I think the boys did well, and I should appreciate the way they played and defended,” he continued.
The gaffer added they wanted to take advantage of playing in the home conditions.
“We were thinking of getting three points, of course. It’s our home, and there is an advantage for us playing here. I just gave a message to players that we just want to make this home ground a threat for all the opponents who are coming here,” he commented.
“For me, a draw, it’s a good one point, but we expected three points; that was the aim, but of course, we are happy,” he further added.
Hyderabad FC will next take on East Bengal FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata on Wednesday.
