Can Mumbai City win the ISL after finishing 1st in the group stage?

Mumbai City FC have been on a level of their own this season. They have scored the most number of goals, with 35 from 20 games played and have the second-best defensive record in the league, conceding only 18 which is less than a goal a game, and a very impressive stat considering the number of goals that they have actually shipped in the games where the defense has been having an off night. 

While they have not beaten FC Goa this year, Mumbai City still head into the contest as the favourites to advance to the finals for many spectators. The first encounter between Mumbai and Goa saw the Gaurs win 1-0 while the second was a thrilling 3-3 draw. 

But an important factor comes into play here, and that is the confidence that Mumbai head into the knockout stages, having won their match against ATK Mohun Bagan in their last group game of the season. 

They have finished in 1st place in the group, and have qualified for the AFC Champions League and won the ISL winners shield ahead of ATK on goal difference, which only adds to their merit and confidence. 

Hugo Boumous will be a crucial part of their offence, returning from a ban, and will be expected to dictate things from the heart of the park while Glenville Le Fondre and Bartholomew Ogbeche, the highest scorers for the club, will be expected to get the much-needed goals to advance to the finals and win the competition.