ISL 2025-26: Every game is a final says Petr Kratky ahead of Mumbai City clash with NorthEast United

Mumbai City FC looks to continue their good run of form in ISL

Mumbai City FC host NorthEast United FC tonight at the Mumbai Football Arena in what promises to be a crucial encounter for both sides. With important points at stake, the clash carries significant weight as the season enters a decisive phase.

Ahead of the much-awaited fixture, Mumbai City head coach Petr Kratky and goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa addressed the media in the pre-match press conference.

The duo shared their thoughts on preparation, mindset, and the importance of treating every game like a final as they gear up for the challenge.

Every game is a final

Speaking ahead of the important fixture, Mumbai City FC head coach Petr Kratky emphasized the value of maintaining momentum early in the season.

While pleased with the team’s positive start, Kratky underlined that the upcoming matches will define the direction of their campaign.

“It is a good start of the season to us. But I think the next two games will be important to understand which direction the teams will go. We are preparing thoroughly to ensure that we succeed and everyone is available mentally and physically to compete. Because every game in this season will be like a final, so we have to go game by game. The next match is at home, and I am very excited. Momentum is very important and we must build on the good stuffs and improve.”

Full week gap allows tactical and physical improvements says Petr Kratky

Discussing the schedule and the advantage of having a full week to prepare, Mumbai City FC head coach Petr Kratky highlighted how the break has helped the squad recover and regroup.

After playing two high-intensity matches in four days, Kratky stressed the importance of managing player recovery and maintaining availability throughout the season.

“Yes, obviously, in the micro cycle, we can get some work done in the group, we got high heat first two consecutive games in four days, so we made sure the recovery stays, and availability will be very important this season. It is very important to train well, but also to be well focused on the game, so I am very happy with the schedule. We can put some work physical, tactical and technical improvements. It really helps when there is gap for teams to prepare.”

Petr Kratky expects tough test against strong NorthEast United

Assessing the challenge ahead, Mumbai City FC head coach Petr Kratky acknowledged the quality of NorthEast United FC and stressed the need for improvement across all areas.

“We need to improve every area of our game. Very important thing is to build on the momentum we have from the first two games, and gel in every aspect of the game. We know that NorthEast is a very good team as they have very good coach and very good players. We must be spot on. We must be physically and mentally ready to compete and again difficult game, but I believe, if the players are disciplined, humble and with the right attitude towards the game, we will achieve what we want to achieve. We know that the opponent is strong, but we fight.”

Our football will never change says Petr Kratky on tactical approach

Explaining his tactical outlook for the upcoming fixtures, Mumbai City FC head coach Petr Kratky made it clear that the team’s footballing philosophy will remain consistent.

“Our football will never change. The point is we have to put in perspective, how we recruit. How long the players did not play football, 11 months, so if we have 11 months to prepare, maybe football will look different. So we try to achieve our goals step by step, and the important thing for us to succeed, to win and get points and get the good football happening. We saw a lot of nervousness in the first game. In the second game, we started to play more football, so we will build on it. Again all depends. This season is very different as we have only 13 games. So we have to look the games with a perspective, for the team’s overall success.”

Goal difference could be decisive in short season says Petr Kratky

Highlighting the importance of fine margins, Mumbai City FC head coach Petr Kratky stressed that goal difference could play a crucial role in a tightly contested and shortened campaign.

“Very important, as there is a lot of competition, the goal difference is a major factor. As I told the group before everything starts, every goal matters and all of us know about it and are working hard in both phases of the game. So I 100 percent agree these small details will be important in a short season like this but we are aware of it and try to get the good outcomes.”

Positive injury update on Jorge Ortiz

Providing an update on the squad, Mumbai City FC head coach Petr Kratky shared encouraging news regarding Jorge Ortiz.

“Ortiz is recovering very well, it’s not very serious which is very good news, and he can join the team very soon and we are happy about that,”

Phurba Lachenpa reflects on 100th appearance milestone with Mumbai City FC

Reaching a special landmark, Phurba Lachenpa reflected on his journey with Mumbai City FC as he prepares to make his 100th appearance for the club.

“First of all, thank you for the question. I just want to say, the journey has been fantastic. I have been here for six years now and worked under a lot of head coaches and goalkeeper coaches, who have always helped me. The players also have been amazing here. We have always worked together, and the club has been very professional. And because of those things, we have been able to achieve what we have achieved. Going forward, I think every match will be crucial, we have to give our 100 per cent and yeah, this is a tough season, and we have to give everything.”

Phurba Lachenpa focused on team success and ISL shield ambition

Speaking about his objectives for the campaign, Phurba Lachenpa reiterated that collective success remains the top priority for Mumbai City FC.

“Personal goals is the same. When we start the season, just as a team goal we want to win the ISL shield and that is the main target as the team. And personally, I want to help the team as much as possible and play for the team.”

Phurba Lachenpa urges fans to rally behind Mumbai City in short season

Sending a message to the supporters, Phurba Lachenpa highlighted the importance of fan backing at the Mumbai Football Arena.

“Atmosphere is really great at home. We have got good support from our fans and looking forward, we expect the same support from the fans, because it is a short season and as coach said, every game is like a final. Every point is important, so yeah that support will be important. I urge the fans to support us. All the players will play the best for the fans and since this is a short season, every game is very important.”

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