Mumbai City FC are all set to play their first game of the 2024-25 Indian Super League season Mohun Bagan Super Giant. The match will be played at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata. Ahead of the match, Coach Petr Kratky and Captain Lallianzuala Chhangte addressed the media at the Pre-Match Press Conference in Kolkata.
“We are looking forward to kicking off the ISL season, and what better way to start than against Mohun Bagan? We know that Mohun Bagan is a strong opposition, but I think we are ready to compete with them. We are ready, and our preparation was very good. We are a club that is striving to be at the top, we want to win the games and competitions we compete in, and the first game will tell us where we stand as compared to some of the best in the country,” said Petr Kratky.
"We approach every match with the same mentality and focus. Whether it's teams at the top or the bottom of the table, we approach each game with the same mindset—to win. We came here to take three points and will try our best. Of course, we are aware of Mohun Bagan, but we are focused and know what we need to do, so we will try to do that,” said Mumbai City FC Captain, Lallianzuala Chhangte.
Heading into the 11th edition of the ISL, the coach remarked, “I am very happy with every addition to the squad that we have had, both the Indian and International players have been quality additions. But there is a lot of work, and we need to keep doing it, and improve on an overall level and improve our football. So, we will see how we go in the first game.”
Looking ahead to the blockbuster game against one of the biggest rivals, the newly appointed Captain said, “Of course, they are Mohun Bagan, and we all know what they're capable of on the pitch. Against them, it's about mentality, physicality, and the small details that make the difference. I believe we’re ready and will give everything we have in the match.”
Chhangte was also asked about his development and what had changed over the past few years, leading him from being a 'promising player' to one of the most consistent performers. He responded, “Firstly, it is a blessing from God, and Mumbai City FC has given me the opportunity to show my abilities. There is still a lot of hard work to do, and I have been working tirelessly with the coach as well. I think it is all about trying to be the best version of myself every day and improving myself on and off the pitch, both as a footballer and as a human being.”
Where to Watch
The game will kick off at 7:30 pm IST on Friday, 13th September 2024 and will be broadcast on Sports 18 and Jio Cinema. For our global fans, you can find your broadcaster at www.indiansuperleague.com/broadcasters or follow all the action LIVE on our official Twitter account -@MumbaiCityFC
