ISL 2025-26: East Bengal FC to take on Mumbai City FC away from home

East Bengal FC head coach Oscar Bruzon set to leave at the end of the season

A much-awaited heavyweight Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 clash between Mumbai City FC and East Bengal FC is scheduled to place on 5 May 2026 at Mumbai Football Arena with kick-off scheduled for 7:30 PM IST.

The clash carries significant importance for both the teams as both East Bengal and Mumbai City are in touching of the top spot in the points table. Not only from the point of view of the title race, but it is also very important in terms of the ACL Two spot that is on the line for both Mumbai City and East Bengal FC.

Let us take a look at what to expect from this high-stake clash between East Bengal and Mumbai City FC.

The Stakes

Mumbai City FC

For Mumbai City FC, this clash carries a significant importance both in terms of the title race and the race to secure a spot in ACL Two at the continental stage. Mumbai City FC are currently fourth on the points table with 19 points in 10 matches.

They are just 2 points behind the table toppers Jamshedpur FC and very close to FC Goa and Mohun Bagan SG who are just above them. This is a must win for Mumbai City FC as East Bengal FC sits just behind Mumbai City FC and if Mumbai drop points, East Bengal will make the most of it and get things done.

East Bengal FC

The importance of this clash for East Bengal FC is just as significant as it is for Mumbai City FC. The Red and Gold Brigade currently sit fifth in the points table, only one point behind Mumbai City FC, while also having a game in hand.

With the ISL title race entering a crucial phase, this fixture could play a massive role not only in the championship battle but also in the race for an ACL Two spot.

Adding to the pressure, East Bengal will be eager to bring positivity back into the camp after head coach Oscar Bruzon recently announced that he will step down at the end of the ISL 2025-26 season.

Team News and Injury updates

For Mumbai City FC Jorge Ortiz and Jorge Pereyra Diaz might miss this clash against East Bengal FC due to injury. Whereas, for East Bengal FC Oscar Bruzon will have the entire squad expect the players who have been ruled out earlier and Miguel who is serving a suspension.

Head-to-Head

Matches Played: 11

Won by Mumbai City FC: 6

Won by East Bengal FC: 2

Draws: 3

Predicted line-ups

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

Phurba Lachenpa (GK), Akash Mishra, Nuno Reis, Bijay Chhetri, Valpuia, Lalnuntluanga, Joni Kauko, Noufal, Brandon Fernandes, Vikram Partap Singh, Lallianzuala Chhangte

East Bengal FC (4-3-3)

Prabhsukhan Gill (GK), Jeakson Singh, Kevin Sibille, Anwar Ali, PV Vishnu, Souvik Chakrabarti, Saul Crespo, Anton Horup, Bipin Singh, Edmund Lalrindika, Youssef Ezzejjari

Players to Watchout

Phurba Lachenpa (Mumbai City FC)

Phurba Lachenpa will be a player to watch out for in this clash from Mumbai City FC. The Mumbai City FC goalkeeper has quietly been one of the side’s most consistent performers this season.

Despite often going underrated and unnoticed, Lachenpa has delivered crucial saves in key moments and has played a major role in keeping Mumbai City FC competitive in the title race. His composure, reflexes and ability to step up under pressure could once again prove vital in such a high-stakes encounter.

Youssef Ezzejjari (East Bengal FC)

Youssef Ezzejjari will undoubtedly be the player to watch out from East Bengal FC. The forward has been on a dream goalscoring run and has arguably been the club’s most influential player in recent weeks.

His movement, finishing ability and knack for delivering in crucial moments have made him the focal point of East Bengal’s attack, and once again, a lot will depend on him in this high-pressure clash against Mumbai City FC.

Did you know?

• The clash between Mumbai City FC and East Bengal FC has witnessed 18 goals in total in 11 matches.
• Mumbai City FC has a clear edge over East Bengal FC in head to head.

Telecast details

The ISL match between Mumbai City FC and East Bengal FC will take place at the Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai on Tuesday (05 May 2026).

The match will kick off at 7:30 PM IST. It will be broadcasted live on Sony Ten 2 & Sony Ten 2 HD, as well as be available to stream live on FanCode.

Outside India, in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025–26 matches will be live-streamed on the FanCode app.

Begin Watch is the official broadcast partner for the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025–26 season in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain.

In all other remaining countries, live streaming will be available on the FanCode YouTube channel.

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