Ratings: Fight, team effort among positives as Mumbai City return empty-handed from Iran

The Indian contingent of Mumbai City gave their best against a sturdy Nassaji side.

Mumbai City FC faced Nassaji Mazandaran in the AFC Champions League 2023-24 at the Azadi Stadium, and succumbed to a 2-0 defeat. The dynamic Mohammad Reza Azadi’s world-class finish and an own goal from Halen Nongtdu secured Nassaji’s triumph.

Amidst the departure of head coach Des Buckingham and the absence of foreign players, Mumbai City FC found themselves in a perplexing situation, struggling to dictate the match’s tempo in the first half. Despite an improved second-half performance, the Islanders couldn’t reverse the scoreline.

Here’s how the Mumbai City FC players performed in the game:

Phurba Lachenpa – 6

The goalkeeper didn’t shine in the match against Nassaji Mazandaran. He let two goals slip past him in the first half, delivering a rather lackluster performance. Of course, can’t be completely blamed for the second one which was an own goal.

Rahul Bheke – 6.5

The Mumbai City FC captain showcased a commendable performance against the Iranian club. While leading the Islanders, he even had an opportunity to score a goal. However, his header slid past the post, ending up as a shot off target. He also received a yellow card.

Valpuia – 6

The defender had some impressive moments in the second half, but there wasn’t anything particularly outstanding to emphasise.

Halen Nongtdu – 5.5

Nongtdu scored an unfortunate own goal, casting a shadow over his performance against Nassaji Mazandaran. He also received a yellow card.

Akash Mishra – 6

The defender displayed an average performance, not quite reaching his full potential. Despite marking his man perfectly and delivering some good passes, there was room for improvement in his overall game.

Vinit Rai – 5.5

The midfielder showed promise but lacked significant opportunities to capitalise on during the game’s course, displaying intermittent positive moments.

Apuia – 7

The standout performer for Mumbai City FC. Apuia was consistently active, creating chances and displaying excellent defensive skills throughout the match.

Lallianzuala Chhangte – 6

The winger with his rapid pace troubled the Nassaji defenders, but his crosses didn’t meet the expected standards.

Vikram Partap Singh – 6

Vikram didn’t have the desired game. Nassaji defenders successfully defended his crosses and consistently blocked his attempts throughout the match.

Bipin Singh – 6.5

Bipin didn’t experience the game he hoped for. Nassaji defenders effectively thwarted his crosses and consistently impeded his efforts throughout the match.

Gurkirat Singh – 6

The forward struggled to capitalise during the match. The Islanders had only four shots, none of which hit the target.

Substitutes

Sanjeev Stalin – N/A

Ayush Chhikara – 5.5

Replaced Gurkirat in the 65th minute, but couldn’t help the team offensively.

Franklin Robin Nazareth – N/A

Jayesh Rane – N/A

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