Mumbai City secured three crucial points on the road after a commanding 4-0 victory over Mohammedan SC to keep their title hopes alive heading into the final game of the season.
The Islanders set the tone immediately, winning a corner straight from the kick-off and capitalising. Zothanpuia delivered an inviting ball into the box, which was met by Sahil Panwar, who flicked it past goalkeeper Padam Chettri to open the scoring and register his first-ever Indian Super League goal.
The Islanders doubled their lead in the 8th minute following a well-worked move which began with a long ball from defence. Vikram received the ball and played it to Zothanpuia, who combined with Jorge Ortiz for a smooth one-two before finishing confidently to score his first Indian Super League goal.
After dominating possession for several minutes, Mumbai City added a third goal in the 24th minute after another long ball. Vikram found himself through on goal and forced a save from the goalkeeper, but the loose ball rolled towards goal and defender Sajid Hussain inadvertently turned it into his own net, under pressure from the attack. After two minutes of added time, Mumbai City went into the break having delivered a dominant and composed first-half performance.
Mohammedan SC began the second half with renewed energy, looking to shift the momentum in their favour. The hosts created a promising opportunity in the 56th minute following a quick attacking move, but the Mumbai City defence reacted well to close down Makan Chote before he could get a shot away. They came close again in the 58th minute when Adison Singh curled an effort from outside the box towards goal. However, Rehenesh T.P., in his first appearance of the season, tipped the ball over the crossbar. Four minutes later, The Islanders responded with an attacking move of their own as they looked to extend their lead. Vikram delivered a cross from the right wing for Brandon Fernandes, but his effort was directed straight at the goalkeeper.
A heavy downpour in the 70th minute led to a temporary suspension of play, with both teams heading off the pitch. Play continued after the stoppage with Mumbai City in control and pressing the opposition. The Islanders eventually added a fourth goal after substitute Noufal P.N. made a strong run down the left flank. He picked out Brandon Fernandes, who guided the ball into the top corner to cap off an impressive attacking display. With four minutes of added time played, Mumbai City comfortably saw out the contest, restricting the hosts to limited opportunities and sealing a dominant victory.
Currently in third place, Petr Kratky’s side will make one last push on the final day of the season on 21st May where they take on Punjab FC away from home.
