ISL 2024-25: Mumbai City FC Inches Closer to Playoffs with Comeback Draw Against Mohun Bagan

Synopsis

On March 1, Mumbai City FC managed to secure a 2-2 draw against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the ISL 2024-25 match at the Mumbai Football Arena. This comeback brought the Islanders to 33 points from 22 matches, placing them just one point away from a playoff position.

Key Takeaways

Mumbai City FC achieved a crucial draw in ISL 2024-25.
Jamie Maclaren opened the scoring for Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
Dimitrios Petratos extended the lead before halftime.
Jon Toral and Nathan Rodrigues scored to equalize for Mumbai City FC.
The Islanders remain close to playoff qualification.

Mumbai City FC faced off against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 on March 1 at the Mumbai Football Arena, ending in a 2-2 draw. This comeback propelled the Islanders to 33 points from 22 matches, putting them just one point shy of a playoff spot.

The Mariners created a multitude of opportunities in the first half-hour, with players like Jamie Maclaren and Deepak Tangri striving to break through the Mumbai City defense.

Despite a couple of near misses, Maclaren showcased his exceptional finishing skills with a powerful right-footed shot into the bottom left corner from the center of the box in the 32nd minute, capitalizing on a loose ball and scoring the opening goal. The visitors continued to press, utilizing their offensive prowess to push Petr Kratky’s squad back.

Mumbai City FC noticeably felt the absence of Mehtab Singh in their defense as Dimitrios Petratos took advantage of the disorganization, striking a beautiful goal from within the 18-yard area into the center of the net in the 41st minute, extending their lead.

The Mariners effectively disrupted the Islanders' offensive rhythm, ensuring they went into the break with a two-goal cushion.

However, Mumbai City FC regained their composure early in the second half. Brandon Fernandes showcased his creativity, finding spaces to challenge the Mariners’ defense, while Liston Colaco conceded a corner in the 57th minute.

Brandon took the corner kick, leading to a blocked attempt by Hmingthanmawia Ralte. An indecisive clearance allowed Jon Toral to score from close range, bringing the score to 2-1 in the 57th minute.

This goal ignited a surge in momentum for Mumbai City FC, resulting in a series of chances. Bipin Singh made a strong run into the Mariners’ territory, delivering a pass to Yoell van Nieff, whose shot was saved by Vishal Kaith in the 62nd minute.

In the second half, Mumbai City FC adopted the offensive style of Mohun Bagan Super Giant. Although their attack lacked cohesiveness, they capitalized on defensive errors and executed efficient finishing to secure a draw.

In the 89th minute, Nathan Rodrigues, a graduate of the Reliance Foundation Young Champs (RFYC), headed the ball into the net from close range, equalizing the match.