Mumbai City youngster Lalengmawia Ralte says Van Nieff coordinates well with him

Apuia scored the winner against Kerala Blasters in a dramatic clash

Lalengmawia Ralte (Apuia) is enjoying an exceptional ISL 2023-24 season, where the midfielder displays exceptional dominance in the middle of the park. He has established himself as one of the prominent figures for the Islanders.

Not just that, Lalengmawia Ralte has also seen a lot of personal development under head coach Des Buckingham. The number 45 has found a knack in-front of goal as he recently secured the victory against Kerala Blasters with his goal in a 2-1 victory in the Islanders’ first home game of the ISL season.

Let’s take a look on what the midfielder said to ISL media after his match winning performance against Kerala Blasters:

Playing against Kerala Blasters

Lalengmawia Ralte pounced on a mistake by The Tuskers' right back, Pritam Kotal, who couldn't clear the ball out of play, which gave the Mumbai City midfielder the opportunity to score the winner. Kerala Blasters were a tough nut to crack for the Islanders.

Apuia highlighted, “They know us very well and that we like to play through the midfield. But we had another plan for that and the wingers played well. Luckily, we won the match.”

Thoughts before scoring the goal

Even though Mumbai City saw more of the ball, the Kerala Blasters' team were resilient and quite absorbent to Des Buckingham's team's pressure. Lalengmawia Ralte reflects on his thoughts before the goal,

“As soon as they scored the equalizer, I thought it was going to be a draw. I knew that I needed to work hard and at least contribute to a goal, if not score the goal. I worked very hard and that one was a bit lucky as well. We had a lot of difficulties playing out (from the back) but I scored the second goal. I have a lot of goals coming.” he added.

Playing alongside Yoell Van Nieff

Mumbai City saw last year's key figure, Ahmed Jahouh, leave the club to join Odisha FC. However, the Islanders signed Yoell Van Nieff, the Dutchman who has seamlessly integrated himself into the Mumbai City FC midfield.

“It’s a little different playing with Van Nieff. Jahouh is a player who likes to get the ball and distribute it, but with Van Nieff, he is a little bit more concentrated in his position and coordinates with me very well. So it’s not too difficult to play with him.” He addressed his adaptation with The Dutchman.

Jorge Pereyra Diaz in good form

The Mumbai City FC striker is like a sniper in the penalty box, prowling on the heels of the opposition’s defender. “It is great to have Diaz in the team, because not only in scoring, he helps us in defending too. His work rate is very important for the way we play.” he praised his team’s number 30.