Mumbai City FC’s journey to the playoffs was far from straightforward. Despite being tipped to dominate, the reigning ISL Cup champions endured an up-and-down campaign, finishing with nine wins, nine draws, and six losses.
Injuries to key players disrupted their rhythm, making it difficult to build momentum during the league phase. However, their resilience and experience—traits that have defined their recent success—helped them overcome setbacks. In the final Matchweek, they produced a commanding display against Bengaluru FC to secure a playoff berth for the third consecutive season.
Now, in Knockout 1, the Islanders will once again take on Bengaluru FC, determined to put their best foot forward and defend their title.
A Stuttering Start
Petr Kratky’s side struggled to find their footing early in the season, lacking the momentum needed for a strong start. Their campaign kicked off with a rematch of last season’s ISL Cup final against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, where they once again staged a comeback—this time overturning a two-goal deficit to salvage a draw.
However, their resurgence was short-lived as they suffered a narrow defeat in a five-goal thriller against Jamshedpur FC in the following match. With just two wins in their first eight games, the Islanders found themselves unable to rediscover their championship mindset. A string of four draws and several missed opportunities kept them stuck in mid-table, struggling to impose their dominance.
Signs of a Revival
Despite being plagued by injuries, mid-season proved to be Mumbai City FC’s most promising spell of the campaign. It was during this period that they registered their only consecutive victories, providing a much-needed lift.
Between Matchweek 10 and Matchweek 17, the Islanders secured four wins and two draws in eight matches, hinting at a potential turnaround. However, their struggles with consistency persisted, as two crushing home defeats—against NorthEast United FC and Jamshedpur FC—once again stalled their progress.
A Playoff Spot Secured at the Last Hurdle
As the season entered its defining stretch, Mumbai City FC found themselves in sixth place. A commanding victory over Mohammedan SC in Matchweek 18 lifted them to fifth, putting them just one point behind third-placed Bengaluru FC.
However, their inconsistency remained a concern, with too many draws preventing them from climbing higher. This meant their playoff hopes hung in the balance until the final matchweek. In a must-win encounter, the Islanders delivered when it mattered most, securing a crucial victory over Bengaluru FC to book their place in the playoffs at the last possible moment.
Now, with their title defence still alive, Mumbai City FC will aim to put their struggles behind them. They return to the Sree Kanteerava Stadium for the Knockouts, determined to overcome Bengaluru FC and set up a semi-final clash with FC Goa—just as they did last season.
Read More: Road To ISL 2024/25 Playoffs: How Bengaluru FC Fought Their Way Battling The Odds
