The Islanders are back in action for the second time in four days as they look to get back to winning ways against a struggling NorthEast United side this Wednesday following a less than satisfying performance against ATK from last Sunday.
Mumbai City FC will be looking for their first away win of the season, as they prepare to face João de Deus’ side which has managed to get just 4 points from 5 games.
The first home defeat of the season came in a little too early for the Islanders as a rather dodgy ATK side left the Mumbai Football Arena with 3 points. Robin Singh scored early in the second half for ATK and a fine keeping display from ex-Islander Debjit Majumder in the dying minutes of the game made sure that Mumbai City FC would not be able to extend their unbeaten run.
The Highlanders will be looking to avoid their 3rd successive defeat in the league and 2nd successive defeat at home. The absence of a finishing force up front can be greatly felt as NorthEast United has struggled in front of goal, managing to find the back of the net just twice in five games.
Where to watch it:
The game will kick off at 8pm 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 broadcasterhere. You can also follow live action on our official Twitter account -@MumbaiCityFC.
Team News:
There’s plenty to be happy for Alexandre Guimaraes has Leo Costa and Zakeer Mundampara have both traveled with the side to Guwahati and will be gunning for at least a place on the bench. Aiborlang Khongjee continues to be out.
For NorthEast United, TP Rehenesh will be in the stands for this fixture following his red card against Kerala Blasters. Second choice goalkeeper Ravi Kumar will be in line for a start.
History:
Mumbai City had a 100% record against the Highlanders last season thanks to 1-0 victories both home and away. Diego Forlan’s penalty was the difference at the Mumbai Football Arena and a simple tap in from Jackichand Singh was enough for them to get 3 points.
Overall, Mumbai City FC edge North East United FC head to head with 3 wins to their 2, drawing on 1 occasion.
Aiborlang Khongjee will be up against his former side yet again, albeit cheering from the stands. Lalrindika Ralte will be up against Mumbai City FC for whom he turned out in the first two seasons of the ISL.
League Watch:
Sergio Lobera’s FC Goa sit on top of the league table with 12 points in 5 games. Both Bengaluru FC and Chennaiyin FC have acquired 12 points too but have played a game more than FC Goa.
Bengaluru FC tasted defeat for the second time this season as they went down against a spirited Chennaiyin FC thanks to a 88th winner from the Indian midfielder Dhanpal Ganesh.
The other fixtures of the week are:
Thursday, 21st December
Bengaluru FC vs Jamshedpur FC (Sree Kanteerava Stadium, 8 PM)
Friday, 22nd December
Chennaiyin FC vs Kerala Blasters (Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, 8 PM)
Saturday 23rd December:
FC Goa vs FC Pune City (Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, 5:30 PM)
Saturday 23rd December
ATK vs Delhi Dynamos FC (VYBK, 8 PM)
