Hyderabad FC have won the ISL title for the first time in their history, after winning 3-1 on penalties against Kerala Blasters. Here are the three talking points from the game.
Hyderabad FC – Maiden final; Maiden win
After finishing 10th a few seasons ago, the Nizams have managed to pull off a meteoric rise to the top. They made their first appearance in an ISL final tonight, and were able to complete a comeback after going behind to win the title. This just goes to show the immense quality that the team possesses, and the winning mentality that helped them hold their nerve in the tense affair.
Heartbreak for Kerala Blasters
An error from Laxmikant Kattimani allowed Kerala Blasters to get the advantage in the second half of the game. Rahul KP’s effort from long range crept into the back of the net after Kattimani failed to deal with the effort. But, they were forced into extra time following a late goal from Sahil Tavora.
Thereafter, a poor penalty shootout display prevented them from capturing the ISL title despite coming extremely close to winning it.
Laxmikant Kattimani: Zero to Hero
Things looked very bleak for Kattimani after he made the error that led to the opening goal for Kerala Blasters. However, he managed to redeem himself by the end of the game in sensational fashion.
The Hyderabad FC goalkeeper saved three spot-kicks in the shootout to guide his team to their first-ever title. And in recognition for his efforts, he was named the Hero of the Match.
