HYDERABAD, INDIA: Kamaljit Singh is no unfamiliar name to football fans in Hyderabad. Having previously been part of Hyderabad FC during his stint in the Indian Super League, the experienced goalkeeper has quietly built a career defined by resilience, patience, and moments of impact.
Beginning his professional journey with Pune FC, Singh progressed through the ranks to feature in the ISL with FC Pune City, before going on to represent Odisha FC. Across these stints, he developed a reputation as a dependable presence, often stepping up under pressure and delivering when called upon.
While not always a regular starter, Kamaljit’s journey reflects that of a goalkeeper who has honed his craft through competition, learning, and persistence – qualities that rarely make headlines but often define careers.
Now with Sreenidi Deccan FC in the Indian Football League (IFL), he has found a platform to showcase that experience more consistently. Calm under pressure and sharp in his decision-making, Kamaljit has emerged as a key figure for the side this season, organising the backline and showing up in crucial moments.
That composure was on full display against Shillong Lajong FC, where he produced a commanding performance by pulling off seven crucial saves to keep his side in the contest and ultimately earning the Player of the Match award. Following the game, the Tribune caught up with Kamaljit Singh for an exclusive conversation.
Q: How does it feel to be playing on the other side of Hyderabad now, since you are representing Sreenidi Deccan FC after your time with Hyderabad FC?
Kamaljit Singh: It’s always a beautiful feeling to be in Hyderabad, and I’ve always loved playing here. Yes, I’ve represented Hyderabad FC before, and that was a great experience for me.
But now I’m here with Sreenidi Deccan FC, and it feels incredible to be a part of this team. The management and coaches have been very supportive and have shown a lot of trust in me, and the fans here have been amazing with their love and support. It’s a really good feeling to be back in Hyderabad.
Q: The game against Shillong ended in a 0-0 draw. But on a positive note, it was the second clean sheet of this season for you. What are your thoughts on the game?
Kamaljit Singh: Keeping a clean sheet is always a good feeling, but at the same time, the game ended in a draw, and we dropped points, so it doesn’t feel completely satisfying.
As a team, we wanted to take all three points, and personally, I just tried to give my best to make sure we stayed in the game. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get the result we wanted. But this won’t stop us. We’ll keep working hard and look to do better in the games ahead.
Q: Many of your saves came under intense pressure. Does that come from training, or is it more instinct and reflex?
Kamaljit Singh: I’d say it’s a combination of both. We spend a lot of time in training working on these situations with the coaching staff, preparing for different kinds of shots and match scenarios. A lot of that work goes unnoticed, but it really helps build that foundation.
At the same time, during a match, things happen very quickly. You don’t always have the time to think, so your instincts and reflexes become very important. You have to stay alert for the entire 90 minutes, because even a single moment can make the difference. So it’s really about preparation meeting instinct at the right moment.
Q: Shillong Lajong were constantly on the attack. What were your thoughts on their performance and the challenge they posed?
Kamaljit Singh: They played really well and were very consistent with their attacking approach. They kept creating chances and putting us under pressure throughout the game, which made it a challenging contest for us as a defensive unit.
In games like these, it’s important to stay compact, communicate well, and remain focused for the full 90 minutes, because one small lapse can change everything. Credit to both teams, they kept pushing and didn’t make it easy at any point.
At the same time, I feel we could have done better in certain areas, especially in managing phases of the game. But the team gave their best on the pitch, and we’ll take the positives, learn from this, and continue improving in the matches ahead.
Q: As a senior player in a relatively young squad, does that add more pressure on you?
Kamaljit Singh: Of course, it does. When you’re one of the senior players in the squad, you’re aware that a lot of the younger players look up to you, and with that comes a certain level of responsibility. There’s always an expectation to lead by example, both on and off the pitch, and naturally, that brings some pressure.
But I see that as part of my role in the team. It pushes me to be more consistent with my performances and to maintain the right mindset, especially in difficult situations. As a goalkeeper, that responsibility becomes even more important because you’re in a position where your decisions can directly impact the team.
At the same time, the environment within the squad makes it easier. The group is very positive and supportive, and we also have other senior players who contribute a lot with their experience. It’s not something you carry alone.
I really enjoy working with the younger players, helping them, guiding them when needed, and at the same time learning from their energy and hunger. It’s a good balance, and overall, it creates a very healthy atmosphere within the team.
Q: Finally, what would be your message for the loyal Sreenidi Deccan fans? Would you like more of them turning up?
Kamaljit Singh: It’s been incredible to see the way the fans have turned up for our games and supported us throughout. Even in moments when the game is tight, you can hear them constantly cheering and calling out our names, and that really motivates us on the pitch. They are truly our 12th man, and their support makes a big difference, especially in challenging situations.
It gives us that extra push to keep going and to give everything for the team. We are always grateful for the love and belief they show in us. As players, we can assure them that we are giving our best in every game, and we’ll continue working hard to improve and achieve better results. We just hope they continue to support us the same way in the upcoming matches – it means a lot to all of us.
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