ISL 2023-24: Mumbai City vs Bengaluru FC: Preview, Predicted lineup, injury news, H2H, telecast details

A win in this ISL clash will help both the sides elevate their position on the points table.

Mumbai City FC soared to victory against East Bengal FC at the Salt Lake Stadium, marking an impressive win in the second leg of the ISL 2023-24 season. The Islanders showcased the strength of their recent signings, notably Iker Guarrotxena, whose maiden goal proved pivotal in securing their triumph over East Bengal. 

Buoyed by this success, Mumbai City FC are poised to build upon their recent achievements and solidify their position as a formidable force in the league. As they gear up to face Bengaluru FC, they are fueled by the determination to continue their winning streak and further assert their dominance on the field. 

The Stakes

Mumbai City FC

Despite their current position (fifth) in the standings, Mumbai City FC remain determined to climb higher and strengthen their position in the league. Playing on their home turf provides them with a valuable opportunity to rally and secure all three points. 

The Islanders are keenly aware of the importance of maximising their home advantage, and they will undoubtedly harness the support of their fans to fuel their performance on the field. With a steadfast focus on victory, Mumbai City FC will leave no room for complacency as they strive to outmanoeuvre their opponents and secure a crucial win. 

Bengaluru FC

With Bengaluru FC experiencing a decline in performance compared to last season, securing a victory against Mumbai City FC on their home ground presents a daunting challenge. Under the leadership of Gerard Zaragoza, the Blues may indeed be hoping for a turnaround in fortunes, potentially aiming to conjure a miracle to overcome the formidable opposition. 

Mumbai City FC’s form and the advantage of playing at their home stadium further elevate the difficulty for Bengaluru FC. However in football, surprises are always possible, and Bengaluru FC may draw inspiration from past successes or unexpected performances to mount a competitive challenge. 

Injury and Team News

Both sides have a fit roster to choose from. However, Mumbai City will miss the services of Jorge Pereyra Diaz who is suspended.

Head-to-Head

Matches Played – 15

Mumbai City FC wins – 7

Bengaluru FC wins – 7

Draws – 1

Predicted Lineups

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

Phurba Lachenpa (GK), Rahul Bheke, Tiri, Thaer Krouma, Sanjeev Stalin, Apuia, Alberto Noguera, Iker Guarrotxena, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Bipin Singh, Jayesh Rane

Bengaluru FC (4-3-2-1)

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (GK), Aleksandar Jovanovic, Nikhil Poojary, Chinglensana Singh, Roshan Naorem, Suresh Singh, Harsh Patre, Halicharan Narzary, Sunil Chhetri, Ryan Williams, Javi Hernandez

Players to Watch

Iker Guarrotxena (Mumbai City)

With a goal already under his belt against East Bengal, Iker Guarrotxena undoubtedly aims to capitalise on that momentum and bring joy to the Mumbai City FC fans at their home stadium. His impressive performance in the previous match marked him as a potent threat on the field, and Bengaluru FC will indeed face a tough task in containing his attacking prowess. 

Guarrotxena’s skill, speed, and ability to create scoring opportunities make him a significant asset for Mumbai City FC, and he will likely be a focal point of their offensive strategy. Bengaluru FC’s defence will need to be vigilant and cohesive to minimise Guarrotxena’s impact and prevent him from wreaking havoc on the field. 

Nikhil Poojary (Bengaluru FC)

Nikhil Poojary’s versatile skill set undoubtedly makes him a standout player in the Indian Super League (ISL), particularly as a full-back. Defensively, his tenacity and willingness to engage in challenges make him a formidable obstacle for opposing attackers, while his ability to recover possession efficiently adds a layer of security to his team. 

Moreover, Poojary’s offensive capabilities are equally impressive; his creativity and eagerness to contribute to the frontline provide an additional dimension to his team’s attack. The Islanders must be mindful of Poojary’s presence on the field and remain vigilant to counter his impact both defensively and offensively. His multifaceted contributions make him a key player to watch out for in any match.

Did you know?

• Mumbai City have the second-best defensive record in the ISL, having only conceded 12 goals in as many games so far.
• This is the first time Petr Kratky and Gerard Zaragoza will face off.
• In their previous meeting, the Islanders secured a 4-0 victory over Bengaluru FC away from home.

Telecast

The Mumbai City FC vs Bengaluru FC game kicks off at 7:30 PM IST, at the Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai on February 18, 2024. Live telecast of the fixture will be available on 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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