Nassaji Mazandaran vs Mumbai City: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

The previous meeting between Nassaji Mazandaran and Mumbai City saw the former emerge victorious.

Mumbai City FC are gearing up for a high-stake showdown in the AFC Champions League 2023-24 as they set their sights on Iran for a face-off against FC Nassaji Mazandaran. The last time these titans clashed in Pune's Balewadi Stadium, it was the Iranians who walked away with the spoils of victory. 

However, the Islanders find themselves in a tough spot, languishing at the bottom of the group standings and facing the challenge without their foreign aces. Adding a twist to the plot, the departure of head coach Des Buckingham to England's Oxford United has left the team navigating uncharted waters. 

Let’s take a look on what we can expect in the upcoming fixture:

The Stakes

Nassaji Mazandaran

In the AFC Champions League 2023-24, the Iranian squad hasn't had a smooth ride, tallying three losses with just one triumph, notably against Mumbai City FC in September. The stakes mirror the Islanders' predicament, with both teams battling uncertainties. 

Even clinching victories in the remaining matches won't assure the Iranians a spot in the knockouts. However, on their home turf, they stand resolute, refusing to lower their guard. The upcoming clash carries immense weight for both sides.

Mumbai City

The Islanders, now bereft after bidding adieu to head coach Des Buckingham, face a daunting challenge against Nassaji. Tasked with a strategic shift, the team places its faith in Indian players, with no foreign aces in tow. 

Having conceded 13 goals in the competition, the goal drought adds to their woes. Nassaji's previous 2-0 victory over the Islanders in the AFC Champions League opener looms large. Mumbai City, now navigating uncharted territory, seek redemption. 

Injury & Team News

Mumbai City have travelled to Iran without any of their foreign players. The team will also be without their defender Mehtab Singh, who received a red card against Al Hilal at the DY Patil Stadium.

Amirmohammad Houshmand will be absent from the Nassaji side as he was suspended through the sports court.

Head-to-Head

Mumbai City and Nassaji Mazandaran have just faced once, where the Iranian team defeated the Islanders 2-0.

Predicted Lineups

Nassaji Mazandaran (4-3-3)

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

Mumbai City (4-3-3)

Phurba Lachenpa (GK), Rahul Bheke, Valpuia, Halen Nongtdu, Akash Mishra; Apuia, Vinit Rai, Franklin Nazareth, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Ayush Chhikara, Bipin Singh

Players to Watch

Mohammad Reza Azadi (Nassaji Mazandaran)

Leading Nassaji Mazadran's charge for ACL glory is Iranian forward Mohammad Reza Azadi. Renowned for his predatory instincts and clinical finishing, Azadi poses a constant threat in the attacking third. His proficiency in scoring from challenging angles and congested spaces makes him a relentless force inside the box. 

Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC)

The 24-year-old Indian winger possesses the capacity to sway a game with his lightning runs down the flank and precise finishing. His signature move of cutting inside and unleashing powerful shots adds to the woes of opposing goalkeepers. 

Did You Know?

• The last time both teams faced, the Iranians emerged victorious.
• Mumbai City are without a permanent head coach, after Des Buckingham left the team in the middle of the season.
• Mumbai City are yet to open their account in the AFC Champions League this season.

Telecast

The match between Nassaji Mazandaran and Mumbai City will take place at the Azadi Stadium in Iran, on November 28, 2023 (Tuesday). The kick-off time is 9:30 PM IST. The game will be telecasted live on the Sports18 network. Fancode and JioTV will also stream the match.