ISL 2024-25: Mumbai City FC Inflicts First Defeat on NEUFC

Shillong, Feb 7 (NationPress) Mumbai City FC triumphed over NorthEast United FC with a score of 2-0 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium during the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25. This victory marked the Highlanders' first loss after an eight-match winless streak, propelling the Islanders into the fourth position with 31 points.

The Highlanders initiated a strong offensive play in the attacking zone, with Macarton Nickson and Alaaeddine Ajaraie collaborating on the left side. Nickson capitalized on a rushed clearance from the Mumbai defense, delivering a cross aimed at Ajaraie, whose header went over the crossbar, thus missing a promising opportunity to score in the eighth minute.

Ajaraie remained a threat, creating another chance five minutes later. Michel Zabaco found him well-placed at the edge of the box, but his shot went wide to the left.

The Highlanders maintained their attacking momentum, applying pressure on the visitors through various offensive strategies. After an unsuccessful build-up, they turned to swift counter-attacks. Following a strong Mumbai City FC defense in the 26th minute, they launched a counter, with Mohammed Ali Bemammer setting up Ajaraie, who narrowly missed the left side of the goal.

Ajaraie then assisted Nestor Albiach with an impressive through ball just two minutes later. However, Albiach's shot lacked the required power, allowing Phurba Lachenpa to make a straightforward save.

The turning point came in the 41st minute when Brandon Fernandes showcased brilliance. Receiving a pass from Lallianzuala Chhangte on the right, he skillfully crossed the ball to Bipin Singh, who delivered a powerful header into the top right corner, granting the Islanders a crucial lead.

Chhangte continued to elevate the game intensity at the start of the second half. He found Hmingthanmawia Ralte in a promising position on the right. However, Ralte's shot went straight to the goalkeeper in the 47th minute. Just two minutes later, Buanthanglun Samte provided a corner delivery to Nickson, who shot from a challenging angle but was thwarted by a packed Mumbai defense.

Nickson remained active, attempting to set up Jithin MS with a headed pass, but Jithin's effort flew over the top right corner.

Ultimately, the Islanders demonstrated efficiency that secured them the three points. Although the Highlanders managed 17 shots compared to Mumbai's five, the team coached by Petr Kratky was more effective in attacking. In stoppage time, Mumbai City FC executed a swift counter-attack, culminating in a superb pass from Tiri to Chhangte, who calmly placed the ball into the bottom right corner from inside the 18-yard box, concluding a convincing performance.

Bipin completed 23 out of 28 passes attempted, adding a clearance and a cross to his tally, along with scoring the opener.

Mumbai City FC's next match is against FC Goa on February 12, while NorthEast United FC will face Jamshedpur FC on February 13.