Match Details
- Fixture: Mumbai City vs East Bengal
- Date: Friday, January 31, 2025
- Time: 7:30 PM IST (2 PM GMT, 9 AM EST)
- Venue: Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai
The home side, Mumbai City FC, sits sixth on the ISL standings with 27 points from 17 matches. Their recent 3-0 win over Mohammedan SC has boosted their confidence, and they'll look to continue their top form. On the other hand, East Bengal FC, placed 11th with 17 points, comes into this game after a narrow 2-1 victory over Kerala Blasters.
Team News
Mumbai City FC
Mumbai City boasts a rock-solid defense this season, allowing the fewest shots inside the penalty box and recording six clean sheets. However, offensive struggles persist for the Islanders, who've scored only 22 goals, ranking fourth-lowest in the league. Nikolaos Karelis, with nine goals, leads their attack, supported by Lallianzuala Chhangte. Key players like Akash Mishra remain sidelined, while Jeremy Manzorro is out for the season.
East Bengal FC
The Red and Gold Brigade have had a tough road campaign, winning just once in their last eight away games. Injury concerns plague the team, with Hijazi Maher, Anwar Ali, Saul Crespo, and Rakip unavailable. East Bengal desperately needs players like Vishnu PV and Dimitrios Diamantakos to step up, as they’ve scored the third-fewest goals (17) in the league this season.
Head-to-Head
Historically, Mumbai City vs East Bengal has favored the Islanders, who lead the head-to-head 7-2, with two draws. The reverse fixture this season ended 3-2 in favor of Mumbai City. However, East Bengal will take comfort in Mumbai's recent inconsistencies at home, including losses to NorthEast United and Jamshedpur.
Possible Lineups
Mumbai City FC (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: TP Rehenesh
- Defenders: Nathan Rodrigues, Mehtab Singh, Hmingthanmawia Ralte, Tiri
- Midfielders: Brandon Fernandes, Yoell van Nieff, Jayesh Rane, Bipin Singh, Lallianzuala Chhangte
- Forward: Nikolaos Karelis
East Bengal FC (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Prabhsukhan Singh Gill
- Defenders: Hector Yuste, Lalchhungnunga, Nishu Kumar, Jeakson Singh
- Midfielders: Nandhakumar Sekar, PV Vishnu, Souvik Chakrabarti, Naorem Mahesh Singh
- Forward: Dimitrios Diamantakos, David Lalhlansanga
Predictions
Mumbai City enters as the clear favorite, given their superior form and home advantage. However, East Bengal's recent win could serve as a morale booster. Mumbai's strong backline and Karelis’ goal-scoring prowess should tilt the game in their favor. A 2-0 or 3-1 scoreline for Mumbai City appears likely.
East Bengal's ability to cause an upset will depend on improving their duel-winning percentage and minimizing individual errors. The key battle will be between Mumbai City's attacking midfielders and East Bengal's defensive organization.
Broadcast Info
India:
- TV: Sports 18 Network,
- Online: JioCinema app and website
UK:
- TV: No direct broadcast available
- Online: OneFootball app for live streaming
US:
- TV: No direct broadcast available
- Online: Live streaming through the OneFootball app
Fans across the globe can also stay updated with live commentary and highlights on ISL’s official channels.
Key Players to Watch
Mumbai City:
- Lallianzuala Chhangte – The creative midfielder is just one assist away from breaking the club record. His flair and vision make him a constant threat.
- Nikolaos Karelis – Mumbai's top scorer this season, Karelis will look to replicate his brace from the previous encounter against East Bengal.
East Bengal:
- Richard Celis – The Venezuelan winger’s pace and agility down the flanks could trouble Mumbai's defense.
- Vishnu PV – Young and determined, Vishnu’s knack for timely runs and goal-scoring has been crucial for East Bengal.
Final Thoughts
The Mumbai City vs East Bengal matchup holds significance for both clubs. Mumbai aims to strengthen their playoff grip, while East Bengal fights to stay alive in the competition. Expect a fast-paced encounter as the Islanders seek to dominate and the Red Brigade looks to defy odds.
