Defensive battle may well decide the result between Mumbai and Goa

Mumbai City FC will lock horns with FC Goa in the ›rst leg of the second semi›nal of ISL 10 at the Jawaharlal Nehru (Fatorda) Stadium on Wednesday.

The Islanders enjoyed a commanding league stage, reaching their highest points tally (47) in the competition, but failed to defend the League Shield after a 2-1 loss against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the deciding clash.

Now, head coach Petr Kratky and his men will aim to win the ISL Cup, a title Mumbai last won in the 2020-21 season when it achieved the famous double (League Shield and Cup) under then-head coach Sergio Lobera.

“We have to be ready from the start. I am happy because the boys look positive, and they have bounced back [from the Shield defeat], but we have some things to improve going into the semi›nals,” said Kratky. FC Goa also relished an admirable league phase under Manolo Marquez’s guidance, ›nishing third with 45 points.

“If you miss a good chance, it’s okay, keep going. If you score a goal, you need to keep going, in a playo£s scenario,” Marquez said.

While both out›ts have a stellar attacking lineup, the defensive battle between the two will be a highly anticipated one. MCFC has the best defensive record till now, conceding just 19, while FCG follows closely in second, after conceding 21 goals.

Final at home ground of top-ranked team

PTI reports

The ›nal, scheduled on May 4, will be played at the home ground of the higher-ranked team in the league among the ›nalists.

Kolkata, Mumbai and Goa are therefore in contention to host the ›nal. Tickets will go on sale once the venue is con›rmed.

PTI All set: Mumbai City will aim to put behind the disappointment of not winning the League Shield when it face Goa in the semifinals.