Hyderabad FC Win Indian Super League 2021-22

Hyderabad FC (HFC) defeated Kerala Blasters FC in a thrilling penalty-shootout (3-1, after the main match ended 1-1) to win their first-ever Hero Indian Super League (ISL) title, on Sunday at the PJN Stadium in Margao, Goa.

Manolo Marquez's men overcame the Blasters in a jam-packed stadium, fans returning to cheer for their teams after a two-year hiatus.

Hyderabad managed to top a few charts en route to their historical victory. With 18 goals this season, Bartholomew Ogbeche became the ISL's all-time top goalscorer, a feat which also won him the ISL Golden Boot.

In all, with 47 goals to their name, Hyderabad were the highest goalscorers in the season. Also, Laxmikant Kattimani made the most saves (61) among goalkeepers.

Earlier this month, six Hyderabad FC players were named to the Indian national team.

Manolo Marquez, Head Coach, said, "We are very glad we won our maiden title this year. It's indeed a tremendous milestone for the club, and we could achieve this because of the team's hard work, support from the staff and management, and discipline amongst the players. Success does not come overnight - the whole team has been working from the last season. We are hoping to win more matches going forward. We want to thank all the fans of HFC for trusting and encouraging us."

Varun Tripuraneni, co-owner, said, "We are immensely excited with the trophy-winning efforts the team has put in. HFC has won the cup only now, but we believe it won the hearts of football lovers all over the country much earlier. This is not only the success of the team but the success of Hyderabad the city, as we regain glory in the football map of India. The win will encourage local talent to work harder. We will strive and plan for the growth of football in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. I heartily congratulate the Hyderabad team for the success."