The upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) 2024/25 clash between East Bengal and Mumbai City FC at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium promises an intriguing contest. Both teams are eager to bounce back from disappointing results, with East Bengal languishing at the bottom of the table and Mumbai City FC fighting to break into the top six.
Match Overview
- Date: Monday, January 8, 2025
- Venue: Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata
- Kick-off Time: 7:30 PM IST
Current Standings:
- East Bengal FC: 12th place, 14 points (13 matches)
- Mumbai City FC: 7th place, 20 points (13 matches)
Head-to-head Record:
- Mumbai City FC: 5 wins
- East Bengal: 1 win
- Draws: 2
Team Previews
East Bengal FC
East Bengal’s performance has been a tale of missed opportunities and inconsistency. Their recent 1-1 draw against Hyderabad FC highlighted defensive frailties as they conceded a last-minute equalizer. Despite the setback, East Bengal has maintained an unbeaten streak in their last three matches and boasts strong home form with two consecutive wins at Salt Lake Stadium.
Key Concerns:
- Injury woes: Hector Yuste and Saul Crespo are sidelined.
- Indiscipline: A league-high six red cards this season.
Strengths:
- Solid defensive showings with four clean sheets in their last seven games.
- Home advantage: Two consecutive wins at Salt Lake.
Probable XI:
Gill (GK), Lalchungnunga, Maher, Anwar Ali, Lakra, Chakrabarti, Vishnu Puthiya, Thounaojam, N. Kumar, C. Silva, Diamantskos.
Mumbai City FC
Mumbai City FC’s 3-0 loss to NorthEast United was a wake-up call, exposing their struggles in converting possession into meaningful opportunities. Despite boasting 66% possession, they managed only three shots on target, underlining inefficiencies in attack. However, Mumbai remains a formidable side on the road, unbeaten in their last four away games.
Key Concerns:
- Inconsistent attacking output, with the fourth-lowest goals scored (15) in the league.
- Missing influential midfielder Jon Toral.
Strengths:
- Defensive solidity: Four clean sheets in their last five games.
- Scoring efficiency in the 16-30 minute period—league’s best.
Probable XI:
Ratheesh TP (GK); H. Bhatt, M. Singh, Tiri, Rodrigues; Rane, Y. Van Nieff, Fernandes; L. Chhangte, N. Karelis, V. Singh.
Key Stats Comparison
| Metric | East Bengal | Mumbai City FC |
|---|---|---|
| Recent Home Form | 2 Wins (Last 2 matches) | Unbeaten in 4 Away Games |
| Clean Sheets (Last 5) | 3 | 4 |
| Average Goals Scored | 1.08 per game | 1.67 per game |
| Possession (Last Match) | 43% | 66% |
Match Prediction
The match pits East Bengal’s defensive resilience and home advantage against Mumbai City’s superior league position and structured gameplay. However, Mumbai’s recent loss to NorthEast United has exposed vulnerabilities that East Bengal can exploit.
Prediction:
- Scoreline: East Bengal 1-1 Mumbai City FC
- Both teams are likely to play cautiously, and the game may be decided by a set piece or a defensive lapse.
Key Players to Watch:
- East Bengal: Cleiton Silva – Leading the attack with creativity and finishing prowess.
- Mumbai City FC: Lallianzuala Chhangte – A dynamic winger who can trouble defenses with pace and precision.
Betting Insights
- Most Likely Result: Draw
- Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Under
- Both Teams to Score: Yes
This game promises a closely fought battle, with each side eager to avoid further setbacks. Expect moments of brilliance and defensive grit under the Salt Lake floodlights.
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