Preview: Hyderabad FC, Mumbai City eye perfect start to campaign

Both teams reached the knockout stage of the Durand Cup 2022.

The 2022-23 Indian Super League (ISL) season is up and running. ISL defending champions Hyderabad FC will begin their campaign against the 2020-21 winners Mumbai City FC at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, Pune.

This will be an exciting opening game for both teams due to the quality in both camps. It is hard to predict which team will come out on top in this fixture. Reigning champions Hyderabad FC have a massive campaign ahead as they are no longer the underdogs. Meanwhile, for Mumbai City FC, there will be pressure to perform due to high expectations.

Here is a look at what is in store for the Hyderabad FC vs Mumbai City FC, ISL 2022-23 fixture:

The Stakes

Hyderabad FC

The expectations are monumental this season from Hyderabad FC. Manolo Marquez’s men will be looking to defend their title and replicate last term's performances. The Nizams are a strong team on paper and their continuity gives them an edge. It will be interesting to see if the outfit continues to perform at a high level, now that the league is aware of their threat.

Mumbai City FC

Mumbai City FC have a simple task ahead - reclaim its throne. Failing to defend the title last season was a setback for the club. In order to get back on the summit of ISL, the Islanders have recruited sensational players including Greg Stewart, who was immense for ISL Shield winners Jamshedpur FC last term.

Team News

Hyderabad FC does not have major injuries to report and Manolo Marquez should have a full squad to choose from. As for Mumbai City FC, barring Amey Ranawade who picked up an injury in the 2022 Durand Cup, Des Buckingham will have a full squad to choose from for the first game of the season.

Head-to-Head

Hyderabad FC and Mumbai City FC have played six games in the past and there is nothing to separate them. Both HFC and MCFC have won two matches each and the other two have ended in draws.

Probable Lineups

Hyderabad FC: Laxmikant Kattimani (GK); Nikhil Poojary, Odei Onaindia, Chinglensana Singh, Akash Mishra; Joao Victor, Hitesh Sharma; Halicharan Narzary, Yasir Mohammad; Javier Siverio, Bartholomew Ogbeche.

Mumbai City FC: Phurba Lachenpa (GK); Sanjeev Stalin, Rostyn Griffiths, Mourtada Fall, Mandar Rao Dessai; Ahmed Jahouh, Vinit Rai, Apuia; Lallianzuala Chhangte, Bipin Singh; Greg Stewart.

Man to Watch

Joao Victor (Hyderabad FC)

While a large section of the fans will feel that the obvious threat will come from Bartholomew Ogbeche, one should watch out for Joao Victor in the heart of the midfield. The skipper is a consistent performer who helps HFC dominate the midfield against each and every opposition. 

The Brazilian will be vital once again for Hyderabad FC. His reading of the game is immaculate. He helps his defence by providing cover and gets involved in the attack as well. In short, he is indispensable for HFC.

Greg Stewart (Mumbai City FC)

Greg Stewart took the ISL by storm by scoring 10 and providing as many assists from 21 outings in his debut season. Thanks to his prolific performances, Jamshedpur FC won the ISL Winners' Shield. Now, the English forward will represent the Islanders in the 2022-23 season.

This is a statement signing by MCFC and HFC defenders will be careful as to not give Stewart room in the box or allow him to take a shot from range as well. If one manages to keep Greg silent during open play, he can turn up with a goal from set-pieces.

Did You Know?

• Odei Onaindia played for Hyderabad FC during the 2020-21 season as well. 
• Greg Stewart was the only player to register double digits for goals (10) and assists (10) in ISL 2021-22.
• HFC newcomer Borja Herrera’s former club Real Valladolid is owned by Brazilian Ronaldo.

Telecast

The live telecast of Hyderabad FC vs Mumbai City FC will be available on the Star Sports Network. The live stream of the fixture can be viewed on Disney+HotStar and JioTV. Kick-off is at 7:30 PM on Sunday.