Mumbai City faced a resilient Rajasthan United FC side in their second Group D fixture of the Super Cup at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa, where the Islanders suffered a 1-0 defeat in a tightly contested encounter.
The match began on a cautious note, with both teams taking time to settle into rhythm. Mumbai City enjoyed greater possession and control but struggled to find openings against Rajasthan’s well-organised defensive line.
As the half progressed, the game became fragmented by fouls and midfield duels. Mumbai City’s first clear chance came after Jorge Ortiz was brought down in the 40th minute near the edge of the box by Shafeel late in the half, resulting in a yellow card for Rajasthan United FC. Captain Lallianzuala Chhangte’s powerful shot from the free kick was threatening but it was cleared by a determined defensive header.
Despite Mumbai City’s control in possession, it was Rajasthan United FC who struck first just before halftime. A swift attacking move was finished by Blandon Jr., who found space outside the box and delivered a precise finish in the bottom corner past goalkeeper Rehenesh T.P. in the 43rd minute. Three minutes of stoppage time were added before the whistle, with Rajasthan United FC taking a slender 1-0 lead going into the break.
The second half followed a similar pattern, as Mumbai City continued to dominate possession but faced stiff resistance in the final third. Brandon Fernandes replaced Jorge Ortiz at the restart to inject creativity, while Bijay Chettri came on for Dhruv Alva in defence. The Islanders created a promising moment in the 68th minute when Akash Mishra beat his man on the left flank and delivered a cross for Brandon Fernandes, whose attempt went just wide.
Mumbai City continued to press for an equaliser as Brandon’s chipped delivery into the box in the 73rd minute narrowly evaded Lallianzuala Chhangte after a well-worked move. The Islanders introduced Noufal P.N. in place of Vikram Partap Singh in the 77th minute in an effort to add attacking impetus as they continued to chase an equalizer. Mumbai City piled on the pressure throughout the closing stages of the match, as 6 minutes were added on at the end of the second half. However, Rajasthan United FC’s defence held firm till the final whistle and they closed out a hard-fought 1-0 victory.
Mumbai City will look to bounce back in their final group stage match against Kerala Blasters FC on November 6, 2025.
