PREVIEW: Mumbai City vs Chennaiyin FC – A well-rested side takes on team on a roll

IN THEIR SECOND HOME GAME, Mumbai City FC look to stop the winning momentum of Chennaiyin FC.

Mumbai City FC are on four points from four games, a win and a draw to add up the points. Chennaiyin FC have enjoyed three back-to-back victories after the opening loss.

In a league, things are planned long-term.  A loss does not stop a team’s progress in its tracks and similarly a win does not get a team too far of others. Chennaiyin City are on the backs of a three match winning streak but are playing their third game in eight days, two have been away games. There is a good chance that John Gregory will take rotate few of his players in order to get them the rest needed for another away travel in the upcoming game. Although, a win would obviously be ideal rotation in a longer league is normal.

Mumbai City FC seem to not have settled in the new season yet. An opening game loss followed by a narrow escape against FC Goa with a win and another loss to FC Pune City and drawing the game against ATK has been their journey in the season. But the fluidity that Mumbai City had last season seemed to be missing this time around. Their defence looks wobbly, midfield is not very free flowing and up front the half chances always too far from converting into goals.

For Chennaiyin, the midfielders and defenders are doing the job of getting the goals for the team. Only the last game was refresh to see star Indian striker get on the score sheet after four games. Chennaiyin FC have been high on scoring this season, like they had been in the season they won the ISL title. But just one clean sheet so far shows some work remains to be done to the leaking goals.

The Islanders are well rested and may come out strong to bring out a performance that shows they are back to business and are aiming to get to the play-offs once more. Chennaiyin have two choices- keep the momentum going and push hard for a another win or – rotate a few players and test the strength and depth of their squad and take back an away point.

Mumbai City FC host Chennaiyin FC at tonight at 8 pm at the Mumbai Football Arena