AFC Champions League 2023: Mumbai City FC set to clash with Nassaji Mazandaran in group D season opener

Nassaji Mazandaran will make their ACL debut in this match

The AFC Champions League (ACL) is once again upon us, and fans are eagerly anticipating the clash between Mumbai City FC and Nassaji Mazandaran in Group D. The stage is set at the Balewadi Stadium in Pune, where these two footballing giants of their respective countries will lock horns. This encounter promises to be a spectacle of skill, strategy, and sheer determination as both teams vie for a place in the knockouts of the premier club competition in Asia.

https://youtu.be/C_iX23LestU?si=LnCy_F9BH4pCty6N

In this article we will bring you all the preview the game and bring all the necessary details at your disposal.

The Stakes:

Mumbai City FC:

Mumbai City FC, the reigning Indian Super League (ISL) champions, come into this ACL campaign with high hopes. This is their second appearance in the ACL, and they are determined to make a mark on the continental stage. The stakes are sky-high for the Indian outfit as they aim to showcase their prowess and prove that they can compete with some of the best teams in Asia. A strong performance in the ACL would not only bolster their reputation but also boost the morale of Indian football as a whole.

https://youtu.be/7ON1xqa_bjA

Nassaji Mazandaran

Nassaji Mazandaran, an Iranian club based in Qa'em Shahr, Mazandaran had a very average start this season in the Persian Gulf Pro League. The team would surely look to start their ACL campaign on a winning note when they face the Islanders and better their form in both domestic league and the Asian competition.

Players to Look Out For:

Mumbai City FC - Lallianzuala Chhangte : 

Lallianzuala Chhangte, often referred to as the 'Mizo Flash,' is a name that sends shivers down the spines of defenders. Known for his electrifying pace and dribbling skills, Chhangte is Mumbai City FC's talisman in attack. The 24-year-old Indian winger possesses the ability to change the course of a game single-handedly with his blistering runs down the flank and clinical finishing. His knack for cutting inside and unleashing thunderous shots on goal is a nightmare for opposing goalkeepers.

Chhangte's experience on the domestic circuit, coupled with his international exposure, makes him a vital cog in the Mumbai City FC machine. In the ACL, his role as a creator and finisher will be pivotal for the team's success. All eyes will be on this young sensation as he looks to dazzle and elevate Mumbai City FC's prospects in the tournament.

Nassaji Mazadran - Mohammad Reza Azadi :

Mohammad Reza Azadi, the Iranian forward, is Nassaji Mazadran's leading man in their quest for ACL glory. Azadi is a formidable presence in the attacking third, known for his poaching instincts and clinical finishing. His ability to find the back of the net from tight angles and crowded areas makes him a constant threat inside the box. Azadi's positioning and anticipation make him a nightmare for defenders, and he has a knack for capitalizing on even the smallest defensive lapses.

The lanky forward, Azadi is expected to spearhead Nassaji Mazadran's attacking efforts and provide the crucial goals that could propel them deep into the tournament. His chemistry with the midfield and ability to link up play will be instrumental in Nassaji Mazadran's bid for ACL success.

Team News

Mumbai City have not reported any injuries ahead of their season opener. Des Buckingham will have a full squad at his disposal for the season opener.

Whereas, on the the other hand Mehdi Rahmati is dealt with a blow as their latest recruit, Alla Abbas the Iraqi international has been reportedly denied Indian visa and is unavailable for the game and Ahad Jamshidi another attacker of Nassaji will not come to Pune for ACL game due to injury.

Predicted Line-ups

Mumbai City (4-3-3)

Phurba Lachenpa (GK); Rahul Bheke, Mehtab Singh, Tiri,  Akash Mishra; Apuia, Greg Stewart, El Khayati; Lallianzuala Chhangte, Jorge Pereyra Diaz, Bipin Singh

Nassaji Mazandran (4-3-3)

Mohammed Rashid Mazaheri GK);  Amir Mehdi, Amirhossein, Mehdizadeh Kasani, Gholamalibeygi ; Ehsaan Hossieni, Mahmoud Ghaed, Farshid Esmaeilli, Saber Hardani,  Azadi, Abbasi

Did You Know?

• Mumbai City FC vs F.C. Nassaji Mazandaran is the first game of the ACL season 2023-24
• This will be the first time that ACL will be played on home and away basis ever since  Indian Clubs’ introduction in ACL

Telecast

The match between Mumbai City and Nassaji Mazandran  will take place at the Balewadi Stadium in Pune, on September 18th, 2023 (Monday). The kick-off time is 7:30 pm IST. The game will be telecasted live on Sports 18, Fancode and JioTV will also stream the match.