Mumbai City FC have made history by becoming the first Indian football club to win in the AFC Champions League. The Islanders defeated Iraqi Air Force Club Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya by a 2-1 scoreline to pick up their first three points in the competition.
Diego Mauricio scored a penalty in the 70th minute to equalise following Hammadi Ahmad’s opener. Indian international Rahul Bheke would then score in the 75th minute to become the first of his country to score in the competition.
With the win, India have climbed to second spot in their group and are behind Al Shabab, who won in their first game by a 3-0 scoreline.
Mumbai City FC pick up hard fought win in AFC Champions League
The former ISL champions were lucky not to give away a penalty early in the game. They would proceed to have one given in their favour later, though. Mumbai City FC captain Mourtada Fall put in a remarkable performance throughout the game to deny the opposition time and time again.
The final stage of the game saw the Air Force Club launch an all-out attacking display, but resolute defending from Des Buckingham’s men helped them hold on until the final whistle and complete a sensational comeback.
The ten group winners and the six best runners-up across East and West divisions make it to the knockout stages of the AFC Champions League. Mumbai City FC will be facing Al Jazira on Thursday in their next game of the competition.
