In a thrilling encounter at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, Mumbai City FC edged past East Bengal FC with a 1-0 victory in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 season. Despite facing challenges due to the departure of key players during the January transfer window, Mumbai City FC found solace in the performance of their recent acquisition, former FC Goa star Iker Guarrotxena. Guarrotxena’s impactful display, including his decisive goal, proved instrumental in securing the crucial win for Petr Kratky’s team.
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Iker Guarrotxena’s Impact:
Guarrotxena, who joined Mumbai City FC last month, wasted no time in making his mark on the team. Deployed as an attacker, his sharp movements and keen eye for goal posed constant threats to the East Bengal FC defense. The Spanish forward’s moment arrived in the fourth minute when Vikram Pratap Singh’s well-placed low cross found him just six yards out from goal. While his initial attempt was unsuccessful, Guarrotxena persisted and continued to trouble the opposition.
Key Moments:
Lallianzuala Chhangte, the incumbent ISL Golden Ball winner, played a pivotal role in creating opportunities for Guarrotxena and his teammates. Despite early missed chances, the breakthrough came in the 24th minute when Alberto Noguera delivered a sublime pass from the halfway mark. Guarrotxena demonstrated exceptional control to bring down the ball before calmly slotting it past the goalkeeper, giving Mumbai City FC the lead.
Dominant Performance:
Throughout the game, Guarrotxena proved to be a persistent threat to East Bengal FC, constantly earning fouls from dangerous positions and capitalizing on precise passes. Mumbai City’s dominance was reflected in their possession statistics, with the Islanders maintaining a staggering 67.3% possession. Despite East Bengal’s efforts, including decent chances for Hijazi Maher and Victor Vazquez, they failed to find the equalizer, succumbing to their second consecutive defeat.
Key Performer:
Undoubtedly, the standout performer of the match was Iker Guarrotxena. With 20 successful passes out of 25 attempts, three fouls won, and the decisive goal, Guarrotxena’s contributions were integral to Mumbai City FC’s victory. His consistent performance across all phases of the game ensured that East Bengal FC struggled to regain control.
Upcoming Matches:
Looking ahead, Mumbai City is set to face Bengaluru FC at home on February 18, while East Bengal will take on Hyderabad FC a day earlier. Both teams will aim to build on their performances and secure vital points as the ISL season progresses.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Mumbai City FC’s narrow victory over East Bengal FC showcased the team’s resilience and adaptability, particularly in the absence of key players. Iker Guarrotxena emerged as the hero of the match with his clinical finish and impactful presence on the field. As the ISL season unfolds, both teams will continue to strive for success, hoping to make their mark in Indian football.
Mumbai City FC Starting XI
Phurba Lachenpa (GK), Rahul Beke (C), Taher Krouma, Tiri, Akash Mishra, Apuia Ralte, Jayesh Rane, Alberto Noguera, LZ Chhangte, Vikram Pratap Singh, Iker Guarrotxena
East Bengal FC Starting XI
GIll (GK), Edwin, Gursimrat, Hijazi, Mandar (C), Nishu, Ajay, Souvik, Suhair, Mahesh, Felicio
