The stage is set at the Salt Lake Stadium for an unforgettable start to the new ISL season. Will it be Mohun Bagan’s revenge or Mumbai City FC’s dominance? Tune in on September 13 to find out!
On Friday, September 13 in Kolkata’s iconic Salt Lake Stadium, a blockbuster opening of the 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) season is scheduled between these two Indian soccer giants; Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Mumbai City FC. This encounter transcends beyond scoring just three points or winning one game because it signifies rivalry that has become the pillar of Indian football. In this match one thing is certain no team walks away from it without receiving some form of punishment; someone must embrace shame.
But what team will follow their expectations into victory this time around?
A Rivalry Renewed: Mohun Bagan’s Quest for Revenge
For Mohun Bagan, this match is about more than just a season opener—it’s a shot at redemption. The Mariners fell short in the ISL Cup final last season, losing to Mumbai City FC and now they are eager to avenge that defeat. After an inconsistent campaign during 2023 which saw them claim victory at the Durand Cup but ended with a disappointing loss against NorthEast United in its final match, their frustration will be even greater.
As per new manager Jose Molina’s tactics—defensive adjustments combined with attacking initiatives—the aim of Mohun Bagan will be to become more dynamic defensively while making efforts towards maintaining it (defensive adjustments). Supported by thrilled fans from Kolkata, there’s hope that tomorrow’s performance will set the tone for a double in ISL—The League Shield and the ISL Cup.
Mumbai City FC:
Mumbai City FC enters this season filled with enthusiasm and assurance. With head coach Petr Kratky at the helm, the Islanders have outplayed Mohun Bagan in terms of strength across recent direct matches. In ten previous clashes in ISL, Mumbai has always emerged as a winner seven times against Mohun Bagan who hopes to continue with such success during their first match of the season.
Their key to success has been their speedster on the wing, Bipin Singh whose pace and creativity have consistently troubled the Mariners. Against Mohun Bagan Bipin has four goals as well as two assists in his recent outings against them making him one of the most important players again. But Mumbai City FC is not all about individual talent; they are also powerful due to good understanding amongst themselves and good strategies.
Key Players to Watch
Jason Cummings (Mohun Bagan):
The Australian striker has been a consistent goal-scoring threat against Mumbai City, having found the net in all his previous ISL matches against the Islanders. His sharp movement and clinical finishing will be pivotal if Mohun Bagan is to claim victory.
Greg Stewart (Mohun Bagan):
A former Mumbai City FC star, Stewart is now a part of Mohun Bagan’s attacking midfield. His creativity and goal-scoring prowess will be key in unlocking Mumbai’s solid defense.
Apuia (Mohun Bagan):
Another ex-Mumbai City player, Apuia will aim to make an impact against his former side, bringing energy and control to the midfield.
Bipin Singh (Mumbai City FC):
One of the most dangerous wide players in the ISL, Bipin will be looking to add to his impressive tally against the Mariners.
Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC):
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Chhangte's pace and ability to exploit defensive gaps could cause problems for Mohun Bagan’s backline.
Tactical Battles and Strategies
Between Jose Molina and Peter Kratky this confrontation will be tactical battle too. Expect him to focus more on compacting Mohun Bagan as well as making it a more defensively sound unit following the defensive lapses’ morale after Durand Cup final. His emphasis will likely be deploying a system which press high up field just like in previous matches allowing little if any space for Rogerio to build up plays using passes through midfield northwards towards opposing goal area.
In contrast, Kratky will adhere to fluid possession-based football of Mumbai City rather than exploit any defensive weaknesses that he thinks Mohun Bagan might have. The mid field is where the actual fight will be, as the likes of Anirudh Thapa, Sahal Abdul Samad, and Glan Martins are required to control pace while changing from defense to attack.
Mohun Bagan vs. Mumbai City FC: Head-to-Head Record
The historical stats give Mumbai City FC the edge in this rivalry, but Mohun Bagan has been closing the gap in recent years.
ISL head-to-head record:
Total matches: 10
Mohun Bagan wins: 1
Draws: 2
Mumbai City FC wins: 7
Overall head-to-head record:
Total matches: 26
Mohun Bagan wins: 7
Draws: 7
Mumbai City FC wins: 12
