Mumbai City FC are set to host Mohun Bagan in their final home fixture of the Indian Super League 2024-25 regular season, with the Islanders determined to put on a strong performance in front of their fans. In the reverse fixture, both teams shared the spoils following a 2-2 result.
Head Coach Petr Kratky expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to rise to the challenge, as he said, "We have a good team capable of challenging Mohun Bagan. We have players who can step in and do the job, and we are fully aware of what’s required and what they are capable of."
Acknowledging the threat posed by the visitors, he added, "They have quality up front and a strong defensive record, so it will be a tough game. But we are looking forward to it and will do our best to win."
Midfielder, Brandon Fernandes, emphasized the team’s focus and ambition in the closing stages of the season. "The atmosphere in the camp is very positive. We have three games left, and our goal is to finish as high as possible in the top six. We have to treat Mohun Bagan as just another game for us. We respect them as the Shield winners, but when we step onto the pitch, we want to be the best team and win."
In an exciting combination, Fernandes has reunited with Jorge Ortiz this year, with whom he previously played at FC Goa. Speaking on their on-field connection, Fernandes said, "When I play with him, it's easy for me to understand his game. Our movements are automatic, we don’t have to think too much; we just look at each other, and it happens."
Beyond individual partnerships, Fernandes noted the same connection growing across the team, he opined, "It's the same with other players. It's important to build that understanding because it helps us move forward as a team and defend as a unit. I think we are improving a lot in this aspect."
Coach Petr Kratky also highlighted the team’s evolving chemistry and praised Fernandes for his contributions, "Everyone has different characteristics individually, and our job is to make it work. We're playing good football and improving with every game. Every season and every game are different, but our focus is on bringing in players who want to be here, fighting for the club, and perform. Brandon is a clear example of that. He’s a great footballer and a great person, just like his teammates on the pitch."
With only three matches left before the playoffs, Mumbai City FC will push for the best possible finish. Kratky made his ambitions clear, "From my point of view, we play to win. It is not just about participating. We want to win for the fans, the club, and ourselves as footballers and coaches. That is why we play football. Winning the trophy would be very good"
Kratky also had a message for the fans, "The fans are fuel for our boys. They always support us, and we hear that. We want to improve on our last home game. We want them to come, enjoy the football, celebrate a win, and help the team perform."
Where to Watch
The game will kick off at 5:00 pm IST on Saturday, 1st March 2025 and will be broadcast on Sports 18 and Jio Hostar. 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
