Manolo Marquez, the head coach of Hyderabad FC, stated that the first leg of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2022–23 semifinal between his team and ATK Mohun Bagan at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium in Hyderabad was a proper contest with equal chances for both teams.
The host team had a good start to the game, creating chances right away. Joel Chianese nearly gave Hyderabad FC the lead, but Vishal Kaith held firm to maintain the score at 0-0. Late in the first half, the visitors managed to get their first effort on goal, but not before Pritam Kotal rattled the crossbar after Subasish Bose had nodded a free kick from Dimitri Petratos. With this outcome, both teams will have more incentive to purchase tickets for the final going into the second leg. This scoreless tie served as the perfect illustration of why both teams have among the top ISL defenses.
With 11 clean sheets each, they equal the record for most clean sheets in a single ISL season. Marquez felt ATK Mohun Bagan got away with a good result despite the draw.
The second leg will be played in the Mariners’ backyard, and with an impressive home record of seven victories out of 10 home games, the Mariners would be hoping to make the home leg count. The reigning ISL champions haven’t won against ATK Mohun Bagan in Kolkata, but Marquez believes their excellent away record will be productive in the second leg.
The highly anticipated clash saw enthusiastic fans supporting their home team to make it to the second consecutive final in ISL. Hyderabad FC’s head coach expressed his gratitude for the fans’ support and motivated Hyderabad FC to finish in the top position every season.