With this win, Mumbai remained top of the table, extending their lead to four points while Chennaiyin slipped one place to the 5th position.
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A late strike from Rahul Bheke proved enough for Mumbai City FC, as they defeated Chennaiyin FC 1-0 in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) encounter at the Fatorda Stadium in Margao, Goa on Wednesday. The Islanders had several chances to break the deadlock but lacked an end product for most of the game until Bheke’s (86′) header four minutes from time secured the points. With this win, Mumbai remained top of the table, extending their lead to four points while Chennaiyin slipped one place to the 5th position. Mumbai City FC will be up against Kerala Blasters on Sunday in their next match, while Chennaiyin FC’s next fixture is against Odisha FC on Saturday.
Mumbai City FC were dominant in the first session in terms of possession, as the opening half was all about Mumbai’s attack against Chennaiyin FC’s defence. In the 5th minute of the match, Cassio went for a goal which was well saved by Chennaiyin FC goalkeeper Vishal Kaith. Bozidar Bandovic came out with a defensive tactic in this match as they were playing with a 4-1-4-1 formation.
It’s THAT man again! ?@RahulBheke comes up clutch again to steal the 3 points very late in the game! ⚡⚽#MCFCCFC #HeroISL #LetsFootball @MumbaiCityFC pic.twitter.com/lJc44RQCQB
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) December 15, 2021
Chennaiyin FC had their only chance in the 46th minute of the match as Jerry Lalrinzuala’s ball fell for Lukasz Gikiewicz, but he failed to convert it into a goal. In the early stages of the second half, Gikiewicz found himself one-on-one with Mohammad Nawaz but he could not find the back of the net. The Islanders attempted many shots in the second half but Kaith was too good for them.
Lalengmawia has been a reliable player for his previous club NorthEast United FC, the Indian men’s football team and now Mumbai City FC. Wherever the 21-year-old midfielder has played, he has added great value to the central area of the pitch.
“I am really happy that I can help my teams out, whether at the national team or at my club Mumbai City FC. I have not achieved success yet. We have only played five matches in the season, so there is a long way to go for us,” Lalengmawia had earlier told indiansuperleague.com.
Speaking about winning the Emerging Player of the Month award, he said, “My teammates were very happy for me winning the award, but it’s because of them I got this award and I am very lucky to have them by my side.”
Lalengmawia was then asked how different is it playing in NorthEast United FC midfield with someone like Khassa Camara last season and playing in Mumbai City FC midfield with Ahmed Jahouh. He replied, “I don’t like comparing players. Each player is different so it wouldn’t be right to compare these two players. Both of them taught me different things and helped me improve my game.”
He is currently playing in a deeper role that allows Jahouh more freedom up the field. When asked how does he cope with the pressure that comes with it, he explained, “I am comfortable with whatever position my coach and my team want me to play. I try to give my best wherever I play and help the team. Pressure is a part of the game so we must accept it and play to our best abilities.”
