Mumbai City FC defeated East Bengal FC 3-2 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25. Although Mumbai City FC had less possession, they were more efficient in front of goal, taking eight shots on target, while East Bengal only managed five. As a result, Mumbai City FC moved up to fifth place in the standings.
Mumbai City FC Dominates the First Half
From the start, Mumbai City FC played with intensity, registering 12 touches inside East Bengal’s box in the first half. In the 28th minute, Nikolaos Karelis had a strong header blocked on the goal line following a perfect corner by the Islanders.
Then, just 11 minutes later, Mumbai City broke the deadlock. Brandon Fernandes played a clever through-ball to Lallianzuala Chhangte, who finished with a powerful right-footed shot into the bottom left corner. (East Bengal FC 0 – 1 Mumbai City FC)
Mumbai City FC Doubles the Lead
Before the first half ended, Mumbai City FC added another goal. Yoell van Nieff delivered a precise pass to Karelis, whose initial shot was blocked by the goalkeeper. However, Karelis quickly reacted to the rebound and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom right corner, making it 2-0. (East Bengal FC 0 – 2 Mumbai City FC)
East Bengal Responds
In the second half, East Bengal came out strong. They pressured Mumbai City FC’s defense, and in the 66th minute, a defensive error allowed Dimitrios Diamantakos to cross the ball. Sahil Panwar accidentally deflected the ball into his own net, bringing the score to 2-1.
East Bengal Equalizes, but Mumbai City FC Responds
East Bengal continued to press, and in the 83rd minute, they equalized from a corner. Hector Yuste headed the ball to David Lalhlansanga, who scored with his left foot, making it 2-2.
However, Mumbai City FC quickly regained the lead. Just four minutes later, Nathan Rodrigues sent a well-placed cross into the box, where Karelis controlled the ball and scored with a composed finish into the bottom left corner. The final score was 3-2 in favor of Mumbai City FC.
Upcoming Fixtures
Looking ahead, East Bengal will face Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Kolkata Derby on January 11. Meanwhile, Mumbai City will take on Jamshedpur FC on January 12.
