ISL 2024-25: Mehtab's Goal Seals 1-0 Win for Mumbai City FC Against Hyderabad FC
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Mumbai, Nov 30 (NationPress) Mumbai City FC secured a 1-0 victory over Hyderabad FC at the Mumbai Football Arena in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season on Saturday.
The Islanders marked their return to winning form at home with a decisive goal from Mehtab Singh, enabling Petr Kratky’s squad to move past the recent setback against Punjab FC, achieving their third win of the season. With his assist, Chhangte became the leading goal contributor for Mumbai City FC in ISL history, boasting 36 contributions (21 goals and 15 assists), surpassing Bipin Singh.
The home team commenced the match with heightened motivation, consistently pressuring the Hyderabad FC penalty area with crosses and attempts to penetrate. The first opportunity of the game fell to Lallianzuala Chhangte, who skillfully evaded his defender Parag Shrivas in the box and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot. However, Hyderabad FC's goalkeeper Lalbiakhlua Jongte was quick to respond, deflecting the shot to safety.
The breakthrough arrived in the 29th minute when Mehtab Singh, known for his prowess from set-pieces, made an exceptional run to head in a corner kick delivered by Chhangte. Mehtab's clever movement allowed him to evade his marker and he executed a powerful header, beating Jongte in goal.
The celebrations for Mumbai City FC were momentarily overshadowed when their midfield star Toral had to leave the match due to an ankle injury, making way for Brandon Fernandes. Despite his determination to continue, Toral was unable to persist on the pitch, prompting Kratky to introduce Brandon in light of the absences of Yoell Van Nieff and Jeremy Manzorro from the bench.
Ramhlunchhunga appeared to be the most likely candidate to score for the visitors. The young player caused problems for the Mumbai City FC defense with his dynamic runs and even forced Lachenpa into action with a fierce long-range shot.
In the 62nd minute, Thangboi Singto replaced Paulista with Edmilson Correia, as Paulista had little impact in the match. Kratky responded with substitutions of his own, bringing on Franklin Nazareth and Bipin Singh. A few moments later, an injury to Nikolaos Karelis led Kratky to introduce Sanjeev Stalin to help secure the win.
Despite their relentless efforts throughout the second half, Hyderabad FC was unable to equalize. Although they held possession at times, they ultimately lacked the finishing quality in the final third, resulting in Singto’s team suffering their sixth defeat of the season in just nine matches.
