The first knockout of the ISL Playoffs is set for a gripping encounter between Bengaluru FC and Mumbai City FC. The rivalry between the two teams intensified after Rahul Bheke, Alberto Noguera, and Jorge Pereyra Díaz switched allegiances from Mumbai to Bengaluru in the summer transfer window.
Bengaluru started the season with a bang, remaining unbeaten in their first six games. However, they lost their rhythm midway through the campaign. Despite the setback, they regained their form to secure a playoff spot with 38 points from 24 games, thanks to 11 victories and five draws.
Meanwhile, the Islanders earned their spot in the top six with a crucial 2-0 victory against Bengaluru FC in their final group-stage fixture. They will now look to book a berth in the semi-finals at the same venue where they sealed their playoff qualification. In this winner-takes-all clash, both Mumbai and Bengaluru will fight toe-to-toe for a place in the semi-finals, where FC Goa awaits.
Bengaluru’s Struggles Against Mumbai
The last time these two sides met in the ISL semi-finals, Bengaluru emerged victorious after a nail-biting 9-8 tie-breaker win following a two-legged stalemate. Since then, Bengaluru have yet to beat Mumbai in the last two seasons, suffering three defeats and conceding eight goals without scoring any. In their overall ISL head-to-head record, Mumbai City FC have won 10 times, while Bengaluru FC have secured six victories from 18 matches.
This time, Gerard Zaragoza and his team will be eager to break the jinx and prove their mettle against the Islanders.
Injury-Struck Mumbai Face a Tough Test
In their last fixture, Bengaluru rested several key players, making it easier for Mumbai to win and seal their playoff spot. However, Peter Kratky faces a challenging task in fielding his best XI due to injuries to crucial players. Versatile defender Tiri is still recovering from an injury, while midfield linchpin Brandon Fernandes is sidelined after picking up a knock in the national team’s friendly against the Maldives.
Adding to Mumbai’s woes, winger Lallianzuala Chhangte sustained an injury in the previous game against Bengaluru and remains doubtful for the clash.
With Chhangte’s absence, Vikram Partap Singh and Bipin Singh will need to shoulder the responsibility of creating chances for striker Nikolas Karelis, who has scored 10 goals and provided two assists this season. However, both Vikram and Bipin have experienced a dip in form. Vikram, who netted eight goals and registered four assists last season, has managed only one goal this ISL, while Bipin has also scored just once compared to four goals and two assists last season.
Bengaluru’s Attacking Threat
Fans will be keen to see how Mumbai’s defence, without Tiri, handle Bengaluru’s formidable attacking trio of Sunil Chhetri, Edgar Mendez, and Ryan Williams. The trio, backed by playmaker Alberto Noguera, have collectively scored 30 goals and provided 13 assists this season.
Additionally, Bengaluru’s versatile defender Rahul Bheke, who has scored three times this season, remains a set-piece threat.
Away Venue Not a Big Concern for Mumbai
Mumbai City FC have performed well on the road, registering five wins, five draws, and just two losses. In contrast, their home record has been inconsistent, with four wins, four draws, and four losses. Thus, the Islanders are unlikely to be overly concerned by the intimidating West Block Blues supporters at the Kanteerava Stadium.
Bengaluru, with seven home wins and three losses, will aim to capitalise on their home advantage and avoid any slip-ups.
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Mumbai: Players to Watch Out For
Mehtab Singh will lead Mumbai’s backline and will face a significant challenge. The defender has made 18 interceptions and won 51 duels this season, making him a crucial figure for the Islanders. Alongside him, Yoell van Nieff will be another key player, orchestrating play from midfield and providing defensive cover.
Bengaluru: Players to Watch Out For
All eyes will be on Sunil Chhetri, who holds the record for the most goals in ISL playoffs with eight to his name. Having scored in three of his last four playoff appearances, his form will be a major concern for the visitors.
Versatile wing-back, Roshan Singh, will also play a vital role, contributing both in attack and defence with his overlapping runs and defensive resilience.
Coaches’ Comments
Bengaluru FC Head Coach Gerard Zaragoza:
“It’s a completely different game. We are talking about playoffs at Kanteerava. It’s an all-or-nothing game, and believe me, we know how to play these kinds of games.”
Mumbai City FC Head Coach Petr Kratky:
“For me, it’s a completely different competition. We are playing for the ISL Cup. We have reflected on what’s been good and bad and worked hard to fix things too.”
The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as Bengaluru FC and Mumbai City FC lock horns in a high-stakes battle for a spot in the ISL semi-finals.
Also Read: “One Competition Ends, Another Begins” – Kratky Ahead of Mumbai City FC’s Playoff Clash