The Islanders have seen a 12-day break since the last time they took to the pitch against Hyderabad FC on December 20. Sergio Lobera has lamented the fact that the momentum may have been disrupted and given the comprehensive performance of his side against the Nizams, there is no reason why he shouldn’t. A Puskas nominee worthy of a strike from Vignesh coupled with a deft finish from Adam Le Fondre gave the Islanders a solid 2-0 win over a previously undefeated Hyderabad FC.

Kerala Blasters, who have had a tumultuous start to this unique season, picked up their first win of the season less than a week ago against our last opposition, Hyderabad FC. Kibu Vicuna, who led Mohun Bagan to the I League title last season, took charge at the Blasters with much promise but has found life difficult in the top division of Indian football so far. But win a rejuvenating win over the Nizams has brought new-found confidence in the Blasters’ camp ahead of tomorrow’s crucial encounter.

They say it’s important to lay down the marker on the first day of the year. Sergio Lobera’s boys, who sit a point behind ATK Mohun Bagan with a game in hand, will have a golden chance to cement top spot tomorrow and start off 2021 right.

 

Team News:

Sergio Lobera is has confirmed that Hugo Boumous is ‘100% fit’ and has reported no other injury concerns ahead of the game.

 

Who Said What:

Sergio Lobera: I am only thinking about our next game against Kerala Blasters, not the two games after that. KBFC have a good squad, a good coach & they play in a style similar to ours. It will be a good game for the supporters and we need to be at our best.

 

Amrinder Singh: I think this break came at the right time for us. A few players who had niggles got time to recover. The team has trained well in these last few days too.

 

Where to watch it

The game will kick off at 7.30pm IST and will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network, Disney+ Hotstar and Jio TV for all viewers in India. For our global fans, you can find your local broadcaster here or follow all the action LIVE on our official Twitter account  - @MumbaiCityFC.

 

League Watch

 

Results:
29 Dec: Chennaiyin FC 0-0 ATK Mohun Bagan

30 Dec: Hyderabad FC 1-2 FC Goa (Aridane 58’; Pandita 87’, Angulo 90’)

 

Fixtures coming up:

2 Jan: Mumbai City vs Kerala Blasters (GMC Bambolim; 7.30pm)

3 Jan: SC East Bengal vs Odisha FC (Tilak Maidan; 5pm)

3 Jan: ATK Mohun Bagan vs NorthEast United (Fatorda, 7.30pm)