Extremely proud with what I have just seen: Mumbai City boss Des Buckingham

Mumbai City won after trailing by a goal at the end of first half

Mumbai City FC made a strong mark in their Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 campaign when they clinched the victory in a dramatic comeback against Punjab FC in the Gameweek 6.

In the 38th minute, the Islanders found themselves trailing when Greg Stewart generously presented Punjab FC’s Luka Majcen with a golden opportunity to take the lead. But, he swiftly bounced back to give Des Buckingham’s team an equalizer. And just moments later, the sniper Jorge Pereyra Diaz effortlessly sealed the victory. 

Let’s take a look on what Des Buckingham said in the post match press conference:

A comeback Win

Mumbai City FC showed immense grit and determination against Punjab FC. They quite impressively made a comeback and secured the win to move upper in the ISL table. 

Des Buckingham highlighted, “I am extremely proud with what I have just seen. To comeback in the manner we did, that’s a strong statement to make and it shows whether we go ahead or whether we go behind. 

“Punjab made it very difficult for us in the first half. But it felt we were a little bit flat and little bit slow in the ball movement, and I can only put it down to the amount of matches and a little bit of fatigue.” Des Buckingham added. 

Passive Punjab

Punjab looked passive against Mumbai City FC, trying to defend their lead. Des Buckingham addressed, “When teams come here, they make it very difficult.”

“They sit back, they compact, sometimes play in counter attacks. So we need to find ways and solutions to deal with that.” The Englishman stated. 

Referee Controversy

The referee showed a couple of yellow cards to the Mumbai City players, especially in the first half. He also believed that his team should have been awarded a penalty after a challenge on Greg Stewart.

Des Buckingham highlighted, “I think we had a penalty in the first half against Greg, there he got booked. I can’t comment on the referees. I watch the games everyday, and I know there’s a lot of comments made after every game. But the most important thing is to show we have control.” the tactician added. 

A morale boost

Mumbai City faces Al Hilal next in the AFC Champions League 2023-24. When asked whether this performance will boost the morale of his players, the English coach replied, 

“Yeah definitely. I think that’s five games now, we have won 3,drawn 2,so we are unbeaten. It kind of demonstrates the kind of football we want to play, and it puts us in a strong position in the league. But, a win is always good”, the coach said. 

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