Hyderabad FC’s Manuel Marquez was pleased with reaching his first Hero Indian Super League (ISL) final after a 3-2 aggregate victory over ATK Mohun Bagan, however, a loss in the second-leg is something he looks to improve on. 

In the second leg of the Hero ISL semi-final, Roy Krishna (79’) scored for the Mariners and brought the deficit down to only a goal, but Juan Ferrando’s side was unable to get the equalizer as Hyderabad FC remained compact in the defence.

Leading that defence, Laxmikant Kattimani was awarded the Hero of the Match for making some incredible saves throughout the game.

Head coach Manuel Marquez was not happy with his side’s performance, even though his team progressed to the Hero ISL Final.

“Practically, we didn’t play. I think that ATK Mohun Bagan controlled every action of the game. But we should be happy, it’s not every day that you reach the final of the Hero ISL”.

ATK Mohun Bagan Head Coach Juan Ferrando suggested that his side has some work to do going into the next season, “Sometimes, we lose focus on details but that is normal for all teams. This season was very difficult. With quarantine and no training. We had many opportunities today but we were unlucky.” He further went on to add, “It’s not necessary to only play the last 30 minutes in high intensity but it's important to do it for 90 minutes' ' when asked about ATKMB’s lack of urgency in the opening stages of the game.

Hyderabad FC are now set to battle against Kerala Blasters FC on 20^th March at the PJN Stadium, Fatorda in the showdown to win the Hero ISL Title.