The Islanders created history this past weekend, securing a 2-0 win over ATK Mohun Bagan in the final game of the league stage. Consequently, Sergio Lobera and his boys secured the top spot in the league, the club’s first-ever piece of silverware, and a spot in the Group Stage of the 2022 AFC Champions League. Two thumping headers from the duo of Mourtada Fall and Bartholomew Ogbeche in the first half were enough for Mumbai City to celebrate a momentous night in the Club’s seven-year history.
FC Goa were also subject to a final day league finish in the race to secure a spot in the semi-finals. The Gaurs are currently on a league record 13-match unbeaten run, going past the record set by the Islanders earlier in the season after a 0-0 draw against Hyderabad FC on the final day of the league stage. Juan Ferrando’s side needed just a point to secure a spot in the playoffs and FC Goa duly picked up the needed point after a resolute display against the Nizams, who were chasing a win to displace FC Goa from the playoff spots.
The first 90 minutes of what promises to be a mammoth challenge awaits and Sergio Lobera insists that he and his ‘ambitious’ side are ready for it.
Team News
Hugo Boumous is back in contention for a place in the lineup against his former club. Amey Ranawade will, however, not be able to face his former employers missing out with a one-game suspension.
Ivan Gonzalez and Alberto Noguera face suspensions and will miss out on the action for the Gaurs tomorrow. Jorge Ortiz should return from injury to the starting XI for FC Goa after featuring in the dying minutes in their last fixture.
Who Said What
Sergio Lobera: Obviously it’s a special game. We are in the semi-finals with a chance to win the trophy. We need to be smart and ready to play 180 minutes and tomorrow is the first step.
Mourtada Fall: We always believe (in ourselves). We need to manage these two games well and reach the final - that is our objective.
Where To Watch It
The game will kick off at 7.30 pm IST and will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network, Disney+ Hotstar and Jio TV for all viewers in India. For our global fans, you can find your local broadcaster here or follow all the action LIVE on our official Twitter account - @MumbaiCityFC.
League Watch
Fixtures coming up:
6 Mar (SF 2 Leg 1): NorthEast United vs ATK Mohun Bagan (GMC Bambolim, 7.30 pm)
8 Mar (SF 1 Leg 2): Mumbai City vs FC Goa (GMC Bambolim, 7.30 pm)
9 Mar (SF 2 Leg 2): ATK Mohun Bagan vs NorthEast United (Fatorda, 7.30 pm)
