Mumbai FC ready for Bagan challenge

After an impressive start to the season, Mumbai FC suffered a shock 0-1 defeat against I-League rookies DSK Shivajians in Pune on Sunday. The Khalid Jamil-coached side will be now aiming to get back to winning ways when they take on defending champions Mohun Bagan at home on Wednesday.

Mumbai have two wins in their last two games at home, against Salgaocar FC and current table toppers Bengaluru FC, and are on eight points after five games. They face a tough task against their Kolkata rivals who have played a game less and have 10 points already courtesy three wins and a draw.

Bagan are unbeaten in the last five meeting between the two sides, winning thrice.

Bagan are also unbeaten in this I-League campaign so far but are coming into this game after a defeat in their last competitive game, against Shandong Luneng in the AFC Champions League qualifier. The green and maroon brigade were handed a 0-6 thrashing by the Chinese club.

Trinidad and Tobago World Cupper Cornel Glenn missed that game due to visa-related issues and with four goals in as many games he will be a key man upfront for the visitors along with Balwant Singh who is recovering from injury.

Mumbai’s defence will also have to remain alert to check the frequent surges from winger Sony Norde and Jeje Lalpheklhua.

BFC face emergent Shivajians Bengaluru FC play the second of their three-home game stretch on the bounce over seven days when they take on DSK Shivajians at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Wednesday.

The visitors will be confident after their first win in the I-League and will be keen to keep the momentum going.

Meanwhile, the home side still smarting from their loss to Sporting Clube de Goa will be raring to get back to winning ways and coach Ashley Westwood, who was critical of the team’s character and lack of game management, is expecting a significant turnaround from his side.