Hyderabad FC will take on East Bengal FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK) stadium in Kolkata on February 26, 2025, for their last away fixture of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25. This match is especially significant for both sides, as East Bengal FC aims to extend their current winning streak, albeit with difficult probabilities of qualifying for the playoffs.
Heading to this crunch encounter, the Red and Gold Brigade has enjoyed back-to-back victories. Currently standing at 24 points from 21 games, their path to the top six is becoming narrow. “Even three wins from here will only take us to 33 points,” stressed the urgency of their situation, as the sixth-placed Mumbai City FC sits at 32 points with games still to play.
Meanwhile, Hyderabad FC finds itself struggling near the bottom of the standings, reporting mixed results with two wins and two losses out of their last five matches, placing them second from the bottom with only 17 points from 21 games. Their away form has also been cause for concern, as they've gone six games without a win on the road, drawing once and losing five.
East Bengal's current form has been impressive—they have not lost to Hyderabad FC in their last three ISL encounters, winning twice and drawing once, marking their longest active unbeaten streak against any opponent. Coach Oscar Bruzon is optimistic about continuing this trend. “Our team looks well-settled, and we are determined to finish the season on the best note,” he remarked, underlining the importance of not underestimATING their opponents.
The coaches’ messages are clear: both teams need to seize this opportunity. Interim Head Coach Shameel Chembakath of Hyderabad FC recognizes the quality of their opponents and insists on following their game plan. “We need to stay disciplined and take our chances. That’s what is more important for this match,” he explained, emphasizing the need for his players to convert opportunities effectively.
Hyderabad's performance has been riddled with inconsistencies this season, resulting from overlapping winless stretches. They've allowed at least one goal from set pieces to East Bengal previously, which Chembakath aims to rectify. “We have to work on not committing more fouls and convert every opportunity we get,” he noted.
With all the current pressure weighing on both squads, the spectators can expect nothing short of intensity. East Bengal players—specifically Naorem Mahesh Singh—are aiming to make history by scoring three consecutive goals, spotlighting potential milestones for individual players.
Both teams are aware of the significance of this match. East Bengal's head coach Bruzon reflects on the tactical preparation for their opponents, “We cannot take our opponents lightly. They are strong, and we have prepared thoroughly for this match.” He highlighted the collective morale and readiness among the players as they approach this decisive fixture.
Speculations exist around the starting XI for each side. East Bengal has rotated its lineup frequently throughout the season, potentially impacting its consistency. They have made 57 changes to their starting lineup, the most by any team, and are questioned whether such transformations have detracted from their stability.
On the defensive end, Hyderabad FC boasts the highest tackle success rate this season. Chembakath, showcasing his confidence, remarked, “I believe in possession-based football, and the players are ready to implement our strategy effectively.” He expresses hope for the team spirit demonstrated recently to sustain throughout the encounter.
Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM IST live from the VYBK stadium and can be watched via Star Sports 3 and Sports18 and streamed on Jio Cinema. An exciting clash awaits, as playoff ambitions linger for East Bengal, and Hyderabad looks to reclaim its position with dynamism!
With warm colors illustrating the rivalry and stakes at play, football aficionados can brace themselves for what is bound to be an electrifying match boasting aspirations of triumph, resilience, and the exuberance of Indian football.