Sudeesh and Augustine aim to capitalise on Punjab FC's strong start to ISL 2024-25
The Punjab FC duo discussed their start to the season, the experience of playing under their new coach, and their expectations for the months ahead in this exclusive interview.
Punjab FC have enjoyed a stellar start to the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season. Under the guidance of new head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis, the Shers have claimed three consecutive victories, placing them second in the league table at the end of Matchweek 4. Their impressive run includes key wins over Kerala Blasters FC on the road, Odisha FC at home, and a solid triumph against Hyderabad FC.
Much of this success can be attributed to a well-drilled squad that has quickly adapted to the head coach’s philosophy. Among the standout performers is Nihal Sudeesh, the loanee from Kerala Blasters FC, who has made an immediate impact on the wings. His dynamic displays earned him Man of the Match awards in both opening matches against his parent club Kerala Blasters FC and Odisha FC, showcasing his growing influence.
Leon Augustine has also played an important role, even though he has come off the bench in all three games, unlike Sudeesh, who has started each match. Augustine made an immediate impact by scoring against Odisha FC after Sudeesh’s early goal, and he contributed significantly in the game against Hyderabad FC as well.
In an exclusive interview with indiansuperleague.com, the duo discussed their start to the season, the experience of playing under their new coach, and their expectations for the months ahead.
Here are the excerpts from the interview:
How is the atmosphere in the new team?
Sudeesh: Punjab FC is a new team, with a new atmosphere. I’m getting along well with the team, and the facilities are great. The weather is good, and we’re heading into winter. I’m happy with my achievements so far.
What changed that allowed you to go from not being in the coach’s plans to becoming a regular starter in the first eleven?
Sudeesh: Compared to Ivan Vukomanović, the new coach (Panagiotis Dilmperis) is quite different, especially in play style. He’s a good person and supports young players well, explaining everything clearly. My hard work might have impressed him.
How was the match against your parent club Kerala Blasters FC? You had a few moments with Pritam Kotal during the game?
Sudeesh: I had the urge to play well and prove myself. Mentally, I wanted to make a statement. Last year, during training, Pritam Kotal and I would always put in full effort. He’s a good friend. He loves to fight. Just because it’s my parent club doesn’t mean I can hold back or play without effort. Playing aggressively can sometimes be positive, but sometimes negative. It’s tough to control emotions during a match, but I try my best."
What are your expectations for Punjab FC's upcoming match against Bengaluru FC at Sree Kanteerava Stadium, your former club?
Augustine: Both clubs play very different styles. BFC was once home to the best players in Indian football. At one point, every club feared Bengaluru FC. I joined their academy at U-17, and I’m grateful for how much they developed me as a player. I feel lucky to have played with them for ten years. Even today, much of my playing style comes from what I learned there. I’ll be playing in front of fans who loved me, and I want to give my best and not tarnish the club’s (Bengaluru FC) name."
What are the expectations for the season with Punjab FC?
Sudeesh: We have great momentum. Our goal is to reach the playoffs and win as many matches as possible.
Leon: We’ve won the first three matches, but we need to stay humble. The ISL is a long journey, and anything can happen. Bengaluru FC once played the ISL final after losing 10 matches. So, we need to train according to the coach’s instructions and take one match at a time. The team is in good form. My goal is to get more minutes and score more goals.
Indian wingers or wide forwards are always criticized for not having an end product. How have you guys been working on that to improve it?
Sudeesh: Here, the coach encourages us to score. He asks us to cut inside and go for goals. If we stay positive, the goals and assists will come.
Augustine: Training is the key. The coach fully supports us, asking us to get into the box and score. After scoring, our confidence grows. When we get into that position again, we know what to do. The coach emphasizes wingers focusing on scoring, and that's why all the players are confident in taking shots.
What influence do Luka Majcen and Filip Mrzljak have on the team?
Sudeesh: Luka Majcen is the team leader. Whether we play well or poorly, he gives us personal feedback. Having him with us is a strength.
Augustine: It’s rare to see players who work so hard at that age. They are skilled leaders, and I’m really happy to work with them.