Hyderabad FC finished their disappointing season by drawing 1-1 with Kerala Blasters FC at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium on March 12, 2025, leaving the club's future hanging by a thread amid whispers of relocation. The atmosphere throughout the game was charged with tension as onlookers worried about the potential shift of the franchise from Hyderabad to New Delhi, underscoring the instability facing fans and players alike.
The match kicked off with both teams eager to establish their dominance. Kerala Blasters quickly seized the initiative with Dusan Lagator scoring the opening goal just seven minutes in. Mohammed Aimen executed a lobbed pass which found Lagator unmarked at the far post, allowing him to easily head the ball past Hyderabad's goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh.
Hyderabad FC, currently fighting to retain their identity within the league, faced early challenges within their defense, where lapses allowed the Blasters numerous scoring chances. They were clearly struggling to contain the likes of Lagator and Korou Singh, whose efforts left the Hyderabad backline stretched. This defensive frailty almost became costly if not for Singh's timely interventions, repeatedly thwarting the visitors with decisive saves.
Despite the rocky start, the Nawabs of Hyderabad found their rhythm as the game progressed. Their breakthrough moment came late in the first half when, at the 45th minute, Sourav K, making one of his few starts this season, displayed extraordinary skill. Following some confusion from Kerala’s defense after failing to clear Abdul Rabeeh's cross, the young striker executed a spectacular overhead kick, sending the ball soaring past goalkeeper Nora Fernandes to level the game at 1-1.
The halftime whistle saw the teams head to the locker rooms all square, but Hyderabad’s troubles returned almost immediately after the restart. Within five minutes, they were awarded a penalty when Abhijith PA was brought down by Lagator inside the box. Tensions heightened as Andrei Alba stepped up to take the spot-kick, but his meek attempt was easily saved by Fernandes, continuing Hyderabad's frustrations.
Kerala Blasters showcased their own attacking prowess, particularly after the introduction of Noah Sadaoui, who made a significant difference with his pace and persistence. He pushed at Hyderabad’s makeshift right-back, Rabeeh, capitalizing on every opportunity to threaten the goal.
Despite Hyderabad's best efforts to gain control of the match, and with fans still passionate about seeing their home team succeed, the ball just wouldn't find the back of the net again. There were multiple near-misses throughout the half, including Edmilson Correia’s wayward shot from close range which sent the crowd groaning with disappointment.
Both teams tried desperately for the winning goal, but the match ended with both sides sharing points, concluding Hyderabad’s season at the 12th position with just 18 points from 24 games, compared to Kerala Blasters who wrapped up their campaign at eighth with 29 points. The result leaves Hyderabad predominantly concerned about the future as they deal with the fallout of their season struggles.
The management’s silence on the unsettling rumors of relocating the club has not only frustrated fans, but it has also raised concerns about the players’ morale. Supporters looked to the executive branch to provide clarity amid uncertainties as to their beloved team’s identity was now at stake.
Hyderabad FC's head coach, Shameel Chembakath, acknowledged the learning experiences this season, stating, “We have had a lot of learning experiences throughout the season. There is always room for improvement, and we are focusing on moving forward.” Fans are left hopeful as they look to the off-season, with decisions pending on the future of their team.
For Kerala Blasters, managing their own issues with consistency, this match was another step toward reassessing future strategies. Head coach TG Purushothaman remains focused on developing the squad and addressing the key issues they faced throughout the season.
The conclusion of the regular season with this draw highlighted both teams' need to reflect on their prospective futures. Mohun Bagan earned the ISL shield after finishing at the top of the league, reaffirming the levels both Hyderabad and Kerala must aspire to reach if they wish to remain competitive next season.
This match wouldn't determine just the outcome of one game, but it would echo the long-standing aspirations of Hyderabad FC supporters as clarity about their team’s future becomes imperative.