MUMBAI: Mumbai City FC staged a remarkable comeback to draw 2-2 against the champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant at the Mumbai Football Arena on Saturday during the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season. This match held significant importance as Mumbai sought to improve their standing and secure their position closer to the playoffs.
From the outset, Mohun Bagan displayed formidable offensive control, as they pushed forward, creating multiple opportunities early on. Jamie Maclaren opened the scoring for the visitors with a powerful right-footed shot from inside the box on the 32nd minute, taking advantage of some indecisive defending from the Islanders. Just nine minutes later, fellow teammate Dimitrios Petratos struck, extending their lead to 2-0 with another clinical finish.
The first half concluded with the visitors commanding the match, leading by two goals. Yet, Mumbai City remained buoyant, knowing they had the potential to overcome the deficit. Fans were optimistic even as their team struggled to find cohesion on the pitch.
After the break, it was evident the Islanders had regrouped. Led by their creative midfielder Brandon Fernandes, they began probing the Mohun Bagan defense with renewed vigor. A corner taken by Fernandes in the 57th minute led to Jon Toral finally breaking through the visitors’ defense. He skillfully scored from very close range, reducing the deficit to 2-1 and igniting hope among the home supporters.
Following the initial goal, Mumbai City began to pile on the pressure. Bipin Singh delivered opportunities, but it was not until the 89th minute when Nathan Rodrigues, the Reliance Foundation Young Champs graduate, produced the equalizer. Headed from close range, Rodrigues ensured the Islanders left the match with at least one point.
Key players for Mumbai included Jon Toral, who completed 40 of his 49 attempted passes and created three goal-scoring opportunities, highlighting his valuable contribution to the team's attacking strategy. Coach Petr Kratky later noted the difficult nature of the match but emphasized the positive signs of improvement even amid inconsistent performances throughout the season.
This draw brings Mumbai City's total points to 33 from 22 matches and moves them tantalizingly close to the playoff positions, just one point short. "We know we have the quality to compete, and today's performance is evidence of our potential to adjust and respond under pressure," Kratky stated post-match.
For Mohun Bagan, the draw extends their campaign without defeat and solidifies their position at the top of the league. They will aim to keep their momentum going when they face FC Goa on March 8.
With Mumbai City FC facing Kerala Blasters FC next on March 7, both teams are focusing on what lies ahead, knowing every point is pivotal as the season progresses.
Overall, the match showcased both teams' strengths and weaknesses, providing fans with thrilling moments and reinforcing the competitive spirit of the ISL. Drawing against the reigning champions could be seen as a positive turning point for the Islanders as they look to secure their playoff ambitions.