Panaji
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season begins with a highly anticipated match between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Mumbai City FC at Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata this evening. This fixture is a repeat of last season’s ISL final, where Mumbai City narrowly defeated Mohun Bagan. Both teams are eager to start the new season strongly, promising an exciting game.
Mohun Bagan is determined to make a strong start this season after falling short in last year’s final. Having won the ISL league shield, the Mariners are now focused on achieving the ISL double. Their squad features a mix of experienced Indian players and international stars, but a recent loss in the Durand Cup final to NorthEast United has intensified their drive for success. Coach Jose Molina will be keen to shore up the defense and seize control from the beginning. With the support of their home fans, Mohun Bagan aims to make a statement. A convincing win could position them as early favorites for the title, while a less impressive result might raise doubts about their championship prospects.
Mumbai City FC, led by coach Petr Kratky, enters the season as the reigning ISL Cup champions. Despite some squad changes, including Apuia moving to Mohun Bagan, Mumbai City still boasts a strong lineup. Kratky will look to replicate their past successes, exploiting any defensive weaknesses in Mohun Bagan’s setup. A win in Kolkata would boost their title hopes, while a loss could hamper their championship ambitions.
Mumbai City has won seven of the ten encounters, but Mohun Bagan claimed their first victory in this matchup last season. The rivalry is set to intensify as both teams vie for top honors in the new season.
As the ISL season kicks off, all eyes will be on this exciting opener. Both Mohun Bagan and Mumbai City FC are ready to make a statement, setting the stage for what promises to be a captivating season of football.
Injury and team news
Mohun Bagan Super Giants
The Mariners are uncertain about Jamie Maclaren’s fitness for the opener as he has recently resumed first-team training. Additionally, Dheeraj Singh remains sidelined with an injury.
Mumbai City FC
The Islanders are expected to miss Akash Mishra, who is recovering from a recent injury. Despite this, the rest of the squad is reported to be fit and ready for the match.
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Head-to-Head record
- Matches played: 10
- Mohun Bagan SG wins: 1
- Mumbai City wins: 7
- Draws: 2
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Predicted Lineups
Mohun Bagan SG (3-5-2)
- Goalkeeper: Vishal Kaith
- Defense: Tom Aldred, Alberto Rodriguez, Subhasish Bose
- Midfielders: Manvir Singh, Anirudh Thapa, Lalengmawia Ralte, Sahal Abdul Samad, Liston Colaco
- Strikers: Dimitri Petratos, Jason Cummings
Mumbai City FC (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Phurba Lachenpa
- Defense: Valpuia, Tiri, Mehtab Singh, Sanjeev Stalin
- Midfielders: Yoell van Nieff, Hitesh Sharma
- Attack: Lallianzuala Chhangte, Jeremy Manzorro, Bipin Singh
- Striker: Nikolaos Karelis
