Hyderabad
Chennaiyin FC head coach Owen Coyle called on his players to be more clinical in the final third after a goalless draw against Hyderabad FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) at Gachibowli Stadium. Despite the clean sheet, Chennaiyin couldn’t break through Hyderabad’s solid defense, which Coyle praised for its counter-attacking threat.
This was Chennaiyin’s first away clean sheet in the ISL this year, and the league’s first goalless draw of the 2024-25 season. Both teams created several chances but couldn’t convert. Coyle highlighted his team’s need to improve their crossing, which let them down in wide areas despite creating opportunities.
Coyle also commended Hyderabad’s young Indian players, particularly Abdul Rabeeh and Allan Paulista, for their dangerous counter-attacks. He mentioned Rabeeh’s potential for a bright career and applauded Hyderabad’s spirit, especially after going down to 10 men following Parag Shrivas’ red card.
Hyderabad goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh earned special praise for a crucial save, denying Lukas Brambilla’s header, which seemed destined for goal. Coyle noted that while his team dominated possession, they lacked the finishing touch.
Although Chennaiyin remains winless in their last two games, Coyle believes his side can take positives from the match and continue building on their early season performances.