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After nearly a week off, Mumbai City FC are back in action. The Islanders will make their way to the Fatorda to face ATK Mohun Bagan in a top of the table clash on Monday, January 11 with action kicking off at 7.30pm against the Mariners.
Sergio Lobera and his boys earned a third win on the trot and a second in a span of just three days after the Islanders dismantled Bengaluru FC 3-1. Mourtada Fall came good with his maiden Mumbai City goal, Bipin grabbed his first of the season before Sunil Chhetri converted a wrongfully awarded penalty for the ‘hosts’. In the final minutes, Bart Ogbeche added a third and sealed the points capping off a comprehensive performance from the Islanders.
Antonio Habas’ ATK Mohun Bagan come in to tomorrow’s crucial clash with a couple more days of rest as compared to the Islanders and off the back of a 2-0 win over NorthEast United FC. As it has happened on more than one occasion, the Mariners put in a strong performance and closed out the tie in the second half with a deft Roy Krishna header and an own goal from the Highlanders.
If there was ever a litmus test, it is this one. The Islanders will have a chance to extend the lead at the top of the table and put some daylight between themselves and the rest of the pack, but not without overcoming a the massive challenge that lies ahead.
Mumbai City FC will be without the services of Ahmed Jahouh who was on the receiving end of a red card against Bengaluru FC and will serve a one match ban.
Jayesh Rane could feature in the ATK Mohun Bagan lineup with Antoinio Habas pinning his hopes on a return from injury for Javi Hernandez too.
Mumbai City FC head coach Sergio Lobera said, “The situation is the same for tomorrow’s game. It’s going to be a difficult game for us. We are playing against a very good team. ATKMB are doing a very good job so far, but so are we. Hopefully, everybody can see a very good game.”
Mumbai City FC wing-back Mandar Rao Dessai said, “We prepare the same way for each and every game, irrespective of the position of our opponents on the table. All the teams have been doing well and no game is easy.”
The game will kick off at 7.30pm IST and will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network, Disney+ Hotstar and Jio TV for all viewers in India.
