Mumbai FC coach Jamil confident of good showing from his players

by Shrutee K/DNS

Mumbai, April 23: A grim battle for honours is on cards as Mumbai FC face off against DSK Shivajians FC in the second ‘Maha Derby’, which is also the concluding round I-League match for both teams at the Cooperage ground, here, on Sunday evening. Mumbai FC, presently in seventh position with 16 points would only require a point and a draw would suffice for them to avoid the drop. A win would enable them to complete the league with 19 points and possibly finish in a higher position.

Meanwhile, debutants Shivajians, with 15 points and placed in the second last position in the 9-team standings, enjoy a three-year relegation immunity, so a defeat would not have any bearing on them. But their coach Derrick Pereira stated that they are determined to go all out for a win as it would ensure they finish among the top eight teams and earn qualification for the Federation Cup, which is scheduled to commence later this month.

Despite all the pressure, Mumbai FC coach Khalid Jamil seemed quite relaxed and optimistic of playing for a win. “It’s going to be a tough and important match for us. It’s just like playing a final and there is plenty of pressure. But I am confident that we would perform well and get a positive result,” Jamil mentioned during the pre-match media briefing.

“They (Shivajians) are a good experienced side and have some excellent players, especially their Spanish midfielder Juan Quero,” Jamil pointed out. The home team does not have any injury or suspension problems and coach Jamil has the option of picking the best winning combination. In contrast, Shivajians will start without their dependable defender Haroon Amiri serving a one-match suspension on account of four cautions.

Mumbai FC, who had started the season with four unbeaten games, suffered their first defeat against the Pune side in an away match in February and they will certainly be banking on the home conditions to settles the scores. They would also look for support from their fans which help motivate their players and team to maintain their unbeaten record in this competition on this ground this year. Mumbai FC have won three, including the last game against Shillong Lajong and have drawn the other four matches.

With plenty at stake, the match promises to witness plenty of fireworks and some tense moments.

The match kicks-off at 7.05pm.

PLAYWIN is the official sponsor of Mumbai FC

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