Hyderabad FC comeback from two down to stun the Highlanders

The young guns from Hyderabad pulled off a comeback for the ages against NorthEast United, at the Maidaan here on Monday.

Partib Gogoi (32’) and Alex Saji own goal (51’) saw the Highlanders take a two-goal lead. But Makan Chothe (70’) and Joao Victor (76’) scored in quick succession to get Hyderabad back into the game.

This result sees HFC equal the lowest points tally in the Indian Super League, with five points to their name this season.

Thangboi Singto’s side started the game strong and tested Mirshad Michu on goal, but failed to find the back of the net in the first half.

A mistake at the back led to Gogoi’s goal and NorthEast doubled their lead after the break on a set-piece.

But the ‘never say die’ attitude of the youngsters, coupled with a push from the loyal Yellow and Black in the stands was on show at Gachibowli.

This helped Hyderabad put in a fight-back for the ages, against the Highlanders.

Chothe nodded in a cross from Rabeeh, jumping over Michel Zabaco to pull one back. And just five minutes later, Joao Victor, with all his experience and a bit of Brazilian flair found the equalizer.

Joao put down two in white and beat Mirshad with a peach of a goal to equalize.

Joao Victor’s goal meant that the HFC skipper has now scored in each of the last four ISL seasons. Makan Chothe got his first ISL goal in Hyderabad colors on a night to remember in Gachibowli.

Muhammed Rafi, Alex Saji, Sajad Parray and Mark Zothanpuia put in a massive shift at the back. Laxmikant Kattimani also pulled out a couple of decisive saves to keep his side in the game.

Ramhlunchhunga, Lalchhanhima Sailo, Abijith PA and Jeremy Zohminghlua all stuck to their task when called upon in the game. Hyderabad put in a complete team performance to script a special comeback a massive result on Monday.

This result also meant that Hyderabad have now taken their last two league points, home and away and continue their unbeaten run against the Highlanders.

The youngsters will look to continue to impress when they travel to Chennai to take on the Marina Machans this Saturday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on March 9.