Owen Coyle shares his thoughts on the importance of Mumbai City FC game in ISL 2025-26

Mumbai City FC are only unbeaten team in ISL so far

The JRD Tata Sports Complex in the Steel City of Jamshedpur FC is all set to host one of the most crucial games of the ISL season, where hosts Jamshedpur FC are set to lock horns with Mumbai City FC, in what could be the title-defining game.

The Furnace has been the stronghold for the Red Miners, with Owen Coyle’s side being unbeaten so far at home. After winning games 1-0 against teams like Mohammedan SC, Punjab FC and Inter Kashi, before earning a hard-fought draw against Mohun Bagan in the last game.

After the Mariners and Red Miners dropped points in their last three games and the Islanders won their last few games against Mohun Bagan, Inter Kashi and Odisha and went on to top the ISL table. But beating Jamshedpur has been a nightmare for Petr Kratky and Mumbai in the last three fixtures.

Ahead of the game against Mumbai City FC, Jamshedpur FC head coach Owen Coyle and Lazar Cirkovic briefed the media about the team’s preparations. We find out what the former Burnley manager told on facing the sole unbeaten side of this season, Mumbai City FC.

Owen feels Mumbai have done well in last few seasons

Mumbai City FC have unarguably been one of the best teams in the ISL in the last few seasons. They have represented India in continental tournaments on several occasions. The Islanders are unbeaten so far, and Owen Coyle feels that it would be a difficult game to play.

Owen Coyle said, “Mumbai have shown their quality consistently over the years. When you look at the Shield winners in recent seasons, it’s been Mumbai, Mohun Bagan and ourselves. Winning the Shield proves you are the best team over a long period, not just a few games. Mumbai have been outstanding since 2020, and they sit at the top on merit. But we know that when we are at our best, we can win these games. That’s what we have to focus on.”

“It’s the biggest game of the season so far because Mumbai are top. If we want to be in the mix, we have to beat teams like them. The players are enjoying their football, they’re working hard, and we’re excited for the challenge,” Owen Coyle stated.

Coyle lauda his players for showing immense character against Mohun Bagan

After being 1-0 down in the first quarter, the Red Miners kept chasing for the equaliser, and finally, when the referee was just a few seconds away from blowing the final whistle, Ritwik found the equaliser. Owen also felt that the local support from the fans have been a blessing for the team.

“First, we have to acknowledge the quality of their goal — it was outstanding. But what pleased me was our response. We chased the game, dominated the final stages, and showed great physical and mental strength. The equaliser was a fantastic team goal. The atmosphere was incredible, and that belief is something we want to carry forward.”

Lazar feels effective communication has been the key for JFC

The Red Miners conceded merely one goal so far in the Furnace and kept three consecutive clean sheets in home. The Serbian has been deployed in multiple positions and his flexibility to play anywhere makes him a great asset for Owen Coyle and Jamshedpur FC.

“We communicate well and understand each other. Sometimes we switch positions depending on the situation. If my teammate goes forward, I stay back and keep balance. It’s something we are comfortable with.”

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.