Thangboi Singto highlights 'importance of fans' after Mumbai City FC loss in ISL

Hyderabad FC suffered a 1-0 loss but were constantly getting support from the crowd.

Thangboi Singto’s Hyderabad FC suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Mumbai City FC in their recent Indian Super League encounter on 30th November 2024 at the Mumbai Football Arena. Despite putting up a valiant effort in the second half of the game, the Nawabs were unable to find the back of the net and ultimately succumbed to the Islanders by the courtesy of a solitary goal in the form of a header by Mehtab Singh in the 29th minute.

The impact of fans on a football match is undeniable. A packed stadium, filled with chants and cheers, can create an intimidating atmosphere for the visitors.

The energy generated by an energetic crowd can uplift players, inspiring performances, and may even end up tilting the balance of a match in favour of the home side. This advantage which is often referred to as the “twelfth man,” can be an important factor in the outcome of a game.

Indian football, despite its growing popularity, has been grappling with a persistent issue: declining stadium attendance. This is particularly evident these days, especially in the ongoing season of the Indian Super League, where once-packed stadiums are now witnessing significantly fewer fans.

Thangboi Singto’s thoughts

Following a disappointing result, Hyderabad FC head coach Thangboi Singto spoke to the media to discuss the team’s performance and also addressed the broader issue of declining attendance. Thangboi Singto also thanked the fans who turned up at the stadium to cheer for Hyderabad FC.

“Yes we had some fans turn up at the stadium to cheer for us, that’s the secret I think. I have been in the ISL for almost nine seasons now, And I think the fans, the support is dwindling a bit, you know, The support is gradually dwindling or getting less. Even if the teams do well, for example, it’s not just about Mumbai here. If you go to Goa, if you go to other places in the Northeast, for example, they’re doing well. Where are the fans?” Thangboi Singto stated.

“So, well, I think the league and the clubs maybe need to do more because, okay, if you lose games, fans naturally get upset and they don’t come to the games. But what about the teams that are winning?

“You know, even their supporters are, if you get the numbers, I think even lesser. So we need fans. We need fans. And today, thank you to all the Maharashtrian Hyderabad fans who came. Much appreciation. Would be nice if they could join us at the home game as well,” Thangboi Singto concluded.

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