ISL 2023-24: Mumbai City vs East Bengal | Preview, Predicted lineup, injury news, H2H, telecast details

Both Mumbai City and East Bengal come into this ISL game on the back of a 0-0 draw.

In a highly-anticipated ISL 2023-24 showdown, Mumbai City FC are gearing up to face East Bengal, marking Petr Kratky‘s home debut as the head coach of the Islanders. Positioned at a commendable fourth place in the league standings with a total of 15 points, Mumbai City FC aim to further solidify their standing in the competition. 

The clash with the Red & Gold Brigade, promises to be a thrilling encounter. Currently residing at the eighth position with nine points, East Bengal are determined to elevate their position in the league. As the teams prepare for this high-octane clash, football enthusiasts can anticipate an electrifying encounter filled with strategic moves and intense competition on the field.

The Stakes

Mumbai City FC

In a commendable display, the Islanders showcased their prowess in an impressive away outing against FC Goa, managing to thwart the league leaders with a robust defensive performance. Rostyn Griffiths, particularly outstanding, earned the well-deserved man of the match accolade for his contributions. 

Now, Mumbai City FC gear up for a challenging fixture against East Bengal. A positive result against the Red & Gold Brigade holds the potential to ignite motivation within the team, creating a momentum that could prove decisive against Mohun Bagan, whom they face next week.

East Bengal FC

In a comparison with Mumbai City FC, East Bengal appear to face challenges. While they delivered a resounding 5-0 triumph over NorthEast United earlier this month, their performance faltered against a seemingly weaker Punjab side. 

As East Bengal prepare to face Mumbai City FC, a crucial win becomes imperative to capitalise on the momentum gained during this December period. A draw or a setback, however, could prove disappointing, hindering their progression towards a coveted playoffs spot. 

Injury & Team News

Mumbai City FC have a full fit roster for the game. Whereas, East Bengal FC have Harmanjot Khabra injured.

Head-to-head

Total Matches – 6

East Bengal FC wins – 1

Mumbai City FC wins – 4

Draw – 1

Predicted Lineups

Mumbai City FC (4-2-3-1)

Phurba Lachenpa (GK), Rahul Bheke, Rostyn Griffiths, Mehtab Singh, Akash Mishra, Apuia, Yoëll van Nieff, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Greg Stewart, Bipin Singh, Jorge Pereyra Diaz

East Bengal (4-2-3-1)

Prabhsukhan Gill (GK), Mohammad Rakip, Lalchungnunga, Hijazi Maher, Mandar Rao Dessai, Souvik Chakrabarti, Saul Crespo, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Borja Herrera, PV Vishnu, Cleiton Silva

Players to Watch

Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC)

Primarily utilised in the second half, his electrifying pace consistently wreaks havoc among opposing players. The prospect of his explosive speed and skill set adds an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming clash, promising an exhilarating battle between his attacking prowess and the defensive resilience of the East Bengal side.

Lalchungnunga (East Bengal)

For East Bengal to face Mumbai City FC effectively, their defence must operate at peak performance, as the Islanders excel in exploiting spaces. Lalchungnunga’s recent displays showcase his defensive prowess, and if he elevates his performance significantly against Mumbai City FC, it could pose a formidable challenge. 

The outcome of the match may hinge on Lalchungnunga’s ability to stand firm against Mumbai City’s attacking prowess, potentially becoming a key factor in determining the defensive resilience of East Bengal in this crucial encounter.

Did you know?

• Jorge Pereyra Diaz is currently the top scorer in the ISL 2023-24 campaign.
• This will be Petr Kratky’s first home game as the Mumbai City FC head coach.
• Both the teams are coming into the game with a 0-0 draw, respectively.

Telecast

The Mumbai City FC vs East Bengal game kicks off at 8 PM IST, at the Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai on December 16, 2023. Live telecast of the fixture will be available on the Sports18 Network (Sports18 1/VH1 channel). Live streaming of the game will be available on the JioCinema app. Viewers from abroad can use OneFootball to stream the game.

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