Hyderabad FC's Shameel Chembakath highlights positives after draw against FC Goa

The Nawabs had scored a late equalizer against the Gaurs.

The intense clash in the Indian Super League (ISL) between FC Goa and Shameel Chembakath’s Hyderabad FC ended in a draw as the scoreline after the full time was 1-1 after both the teams were down to 10 men each.

Hyderabad FC fought back from a goal down to secure a dramatic draw against FC Goa. Armando Sadiku put the Gaurs ahead with a clinical finish in the 52nd minute, but Hyderabad FC refused to surrender.

Shameel Chembakath’s thoughts

Allan Paulista’s equalizer deep into stoppage time getting a point for the Nawabs, ensuring that both teams shared the spoils. The match was also marked by high drama and tension, with both sides reduced to ten men after Borja Herrera and Alex Saji were sent off.

Hyderabad FC’s interim head coach Shameel Chembakath spoke to the media after the game at the post-match press conference.

Talking about the physicality of the game, Shameel Chembakath agreed that physicality is a part of the games and said that he was impressed with the way the boys had fought back.

 “I don’t think it’s a lucky point. The boys fought hard. If you look at the stats, I think we dominated most of the match. When you play against an experienced team, physicality is a part of the game. When they were down, they tried to push back, and that happens in every match. I believe that my players should try and become more mature in handling such situations and learn how to take advantage when the opportunity arises,” Shameel Chembakath said.

Coach Shameel Chembakath praised his players for their resilience and fighting spirit. He praised their efforts in staging a comeback and also acknowledged the impact of the substitutes who played a crucial role in getting the point from the game.

“I think in the game when you come back for an equalizer, it’s always pressure. For me, it’s not just about the equalizer; it’s about the mentality and commitment that the players showed. That is more important. This will take us forward into the coming matches with more confidence, and I appreciate the players—the way they played and the effort of those who came off the bench.

“The commitment and mentality they displayed were crucial. When the captain was down, they took it very seriously, and I think this was one of the best comebacks in our ISL season,” Shameel Chembakath stated.

“Today, if you analyze the match, the defence was solid, And all teams make mistakes sometimes. My team is still young, and they will continue to develop and improve in the upcoming sessions,” he added.

After this game, The Nawabs gear up to host Bengaluru FC at their home ground on January 18th. The manager seemed confident and was optimistic about facing the blues.

“The next match will be tough, but this draw will help our players. A strong week of training sessions will prepare us to give a strong fight against Bengaluru FC,” Shameel Chembakath concluded.

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