ISL: Mumbai City FC's stunning comeback keeps Playoff hopes alive– Talking points

Mumbai City FC pulled off a thrilling comeback from two goals down to salvage a 2-2 draw against Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) at the Mumbai Football Arena, on Saturday.

With this result, the Islanders are now just one point away from securing a playoff spot in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25. Here are the five major takeaways from the encounter:

#5 Pre-match drama

A major talking point before the game was the reaction of Mumbai City FC fans to Lalengmawia Ralte, popularly known as Apuia.

As the midfielder walked into the dressing room, fans threw cash at him in response to his pre-match statement, which many perceived as disrespectful.

Apuia had said, "They (Mumbai City) helped me a lot to become a better player so that I can help Mohun Bagan now." Many Mumbai supporters saw this as implying that their club was merely a stepping stone in his career.

The gesture of throwing money was seen as a sarcastic way of questioning his loyalty and mocking his words.

Despite the heated atmosphere, Apuia started the match for MBSG, but the incident set the tone for an emotionally charged fixture.

#4 Jamie Maclaren’s clinical finish

The Mariners started on the front foot, consistently breaking through Mumbai City FC’s defensive setup. The breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when Jamie Maclaren showcased his elite finishing ability.

Pouncing on a loose ball inside the box, he fired a precise shot into the bottom left corner, leaving no chance for the goalkeeper.

His goal not only rewarded MBSG’s dominant start but also highlighted the Islanders' defensive frailties in the absence of Mehtab Singh.

#3 Petratos' strike

Building on Maclaren’s opener, Mohun Bagan Super Giant continued to press aggressively.

Their efforts bore fruit again in the 41st minute when Dimitrios Petratos unleashed a powerful strike from inside the 18-yard box to double the lead.

His goal underlined MBSG’s ability to capitalise on defensive lapses, and at halftime, they looked firmly in control.

Mumbai City FC struggled to build their usual fluid attacking movements, largely due to the Mariners’ well-structured pressing and disruption in midfield.

#2 Brandon Fernandes’ influence

Mumbai City FC needed a strong second half, and Brandon Fernandes played a pivotal role in their resurgence.

His ability to find space and dictate play from midfield troubled MBSG’s defensive setup. It was his well-delivered corner in the 57th minute that led to Jon Toral’s goal.

Fernandes' composure and creativity were instrumental in shifting momentum in Mumbai City’s favour, proving why he remains a key playmaker in the ISL.

#1 Jon Toral and Nathan Rodrigues step up under pressure

With Mumbai desperately searching for goals, Jon Toral stepped up to halve the deficit. His close-range strike in the 57th minute provided the much-needed breakthrough.

As the game progressed, the Islanders threw bodies forward, and their persistence paid off in the 89th minute when young Nathan Rodrigues showed composure beyond his years.

The RFYC graduate made a crucial impact, heading in the equaliser deep inside the six-yard box, sealing a vital point for his side.

With the playoffs within touching distance, the Islanders will look to carry this momentum forward in their remaining fixtures.

Can they secure their spot in the knockout stage? The next match will be crucial in determining their fate.