It has been a tough week for the Islanders, after a 9-game unbeaten run was snapped by FC Goa, Mumbai City FC succumbed to back-to-back defeats for the first time this season. Jorge Costa’s side have a chance to right a few wrongs and inch closer to the play-offs as they host NorthEast United FC tomorrow at the Mumbai Football Arena at 7.30pm.
In what will be the final league game at the Arena, the Islanders come in needing a win to inch closer to a spot in the semifinals and three points over fellow playoff contenders NorthEast United FC would do a world of good to the Islanders’ chances.
Coming into tomorrow’s crunch tie, Eelco Schattorie’s side have hit a bump in their form too. Coming off the back of a defeat to Bengaluru FC and a home draw against Delhi Dynamos, the Highlanders continue to fight for a spot in the top 4 with the likes of ATK and Jamshedpur FC hot on their tail.
While the visitors are having defensive woes of their own, the attacking trio of Hero ISL’s joint top-scorer Bartholomew Ogbeche, Federico Gallego and January signing Panagiotis Triadis have been a constant threat in the final third of the pitch and will be vital to the Highlanders’ chances tomorrow.
Where to watch it:
The game will kick off at 7.30pm IST and will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network, Hotstar and Jio TV for all viewers in India. For our global fans, you can find your broadcaster HERE. You can also follow live action on our official Twitter account - @MumbaiCityFC.
Team News:
Head coach Jorge Costa has confirmed his 18-man squad for tomorrow’s encounter against NorthEast United FC. On the injury list are Subhasish Bose, Alen Deory, Joyner Lourenco and Davinder Singh. Defender Lucian Goian will also miss tomorrow’s action, facing a suspension for four yellow cards.
The visitors NorthEast United FC will be without the services of TP Rehenesh tomorrow after the ‘keeper went off injured in their last game against Delhi Dynamos. Eelco Schattorie has also confirmed defender Mislav Komorski is ruled out for the remainder of the season.
Who said what:
Jorge Costa: NEUFC are a very aggressive side and in my opinion, one of the best teams in India. We have to give our 100% tomorrow to win the 3 points.
Anwar Ali: Both teams need the points tomorrow. It will be a tough game but we hope to make the home advantage count.
Modou Sougou: When we last played NEUFC in Guwahati, it was one of the toughest games so far and they’re even better now. We cannot take them lightly.
League Watch
Results:
9 Feb: Chennaiyin FC 2-1 Bengaluru FC (Jeje 32’, Nelson 42’ Chhetri 57’)
10 Feb: FC Pune City 2-2 ATK (Johnson 17’ OG, Robin 76’ Rane 23’, Edu Garcia 61’ P)
Fixtures coming up:
14 Feb: FC Goa vs ATK (Jawharalal Nehru Stadium, Goa, 7.30pm)
15 Feb: Kerala Blasters FC vs Chennaiyin FC (Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi, 7.30pm)
