'Proud of my boys, but we need to improve': Mumbai City coach Petr Kratky

Petr Kratky is proud of his Mumbai City FC players after they showed tremendous determination and resilience to make a comeback from a 0-2 deficit to hold Mohun Bagan Super Giant to a 2-2 draw in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 opener at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Friday.

Mohun Bagan took a 2-0 lead in the first half of the game and remained in contention for three points. However, Mumbai City showed their character by levelling the score hitting the net twice in a span of 20 minutes, with Tiri and Thaer Krouma scoring. Their last goal came in the 90th minute, helping them to salvage a draw.

"Character is one of the important things we want in the changing room because there will be hard times during the season. But we have to keep working hard, and our quality will show in the end because I believe we have some quality in the team, which we showed it again," Kratky said in the post-match press conference.

"I am very proud of the boys again, especially in the first game of the season when you do not know what to expect in terms of new players, characters, and Mohun Bagan SG (the opponent)," he said.

"Considering all these factors, I am very proud of the group. We just need to keep working on the small things," Kratky added.

'We did not deserve to lose'

However, Kratky, the Czech coach of Mumbai City, admitted that his team needed to be more diligent with converting the chances into goals.

Starting the game on an aggressive note, Mumbai City created several scoring opportunities. However, they failed to score a valid goal in the first game. Their only goal in the first half, coming in the fourth minute of the match, was cancelled due to offside.

"I do not think we deserved to lose today; we played some good football. But there are areas where we need to improve. We cannot afford to concede two goals. Mohun Bagan SG are a strong team, so I think it is a fair outcome for both sides for Matchweek 1," Kratky stated.

Talking about Noufal, who came in as a substitute and provided assists to both goals scored by Mumbai City in the second half, Kratky said, "He is another exciting talent. His pace is amazing, he is a good footballer, and his attitude is great. We will give him an opportunity."

"He had a very good pre-season, which is why we brought him to Mumbai City FC. I think he will be a good addition to the ISL, and Mumbai City FC will benefit from him this season," he added.