The Islanders face a tough away challenge against the Blues in a must-win knockout showdown

Bengaluru, Karnataka: Bengaluru FC will lock horns with ISL Cup holders Mumbai City FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in the first single-legged ISL 2024-25 playoff knockout on March 29 at 7:30 PM IST. The Blues, who finished third in the league with 38 points from 24 games (11 wins, 5 draws), will be aiming to make their home advantage count.

Meanwhile, Mumbai City FC scraped into the top-six with a clutch 2-0 win over Bengaluru on the final matchday. Now, they return to the same venue, hoping for a repeat performance and a spot in the semi-finals.

Recent Form & History

Bengaluru FC come into this game with a poor record against Mumbai City, having lost four of their last five encounters. However, they’ll take heart from their previous playoff meeting, where they edged out the Islanders on penalties in the 2022-23 semi-finals.

For Mumbai, recent history is on their side. They’ve kept four consecutive clean sheets against Bengaluru, scoring eight goals in those matches. Another shutout would see them match their longest streak of clean sheets against a single opponent in ISL history—five games (against East Bengal FC from 2020-2022).

Bengaluru FC’s Attacking Threat

Relentless Shooting: The Blues have been one of the most aggressive attacking sides this season, averaging a shot every 35.2 passes—the best in the league. Mumbai’s defense will need to disrupt their rhythm early and deny them space to fire off shots.

Chhetri’s Playoff Prowess: Sunil Chhetri thrives on the big stage. With eight ISL playoff goals—the most in competition history—he remains Bengaluru’s biggest weapon. He has scored in three of his last four playoff appearances, making him a nightmare for Mumbai’s backline.

Mumbai City FC’s Playoff Streak

Red-Hot Form: The Islanders are on a four-game winning streak in ISL playoffs—the longest run by any team in the competition. A fifth consecutive victory would send them into the semi-finals with momentum.

Kratky’s Tactical Masterclass: Head coach Petr Kratky has three playoff wins under his belt. A victory here would see him tie with Sergio Lobera for the second-most playoff wins (4), trailing only Antonio Lopez (6).

Head-to-Head Record

In 18 ISL meetings, Mumbai City FC hold the upper hand with 10 wins, while Bengaluru FC have triumphed six times. Two matches ended in draws.

Coaches’ Corner

The Blues’ head coach is confident his team knows how to handle the pressure.

“It’s a completely different game. We are talking about playoffs at Kanteerava. It’s an all-or-nothing game, and believe me, we know how to play these kinds of games.”

Gerard Zaragoza (Bengaluru FC)

The Islanders’ boss believes his team is ready to fight for the ISL Cup.

“For me, it’s a completely different competition. We are playing for the ISL Cup. We have reflected on what’s been good and bad, and worked hard to fix things too.”

Petr Kratky (Mumbai City FC)

Key Players to Watch

Sunil Chhetri (BFC): The talisman has converted four penalties this season and is closing in on a milestone. With one more goal, he’ll become the first player to score 10 goals against Mumbai City FC in ISL history.

Mehtab Singh (MCFC): The Islanders’ rock at the back, Mehtab has averaged 25.91 forward passes per game—ranking third among Indian outfield players. He also boasts 18 interceptions, 51 duels won, and 97 clearances this season.

Alberto Noguera (BFC): The Spaniard has been in fine form, contributing to a goal in each of his last three home games. Overall, he has five goals and three assists in 22 appearances this season.

Wrapping Up

With everything on the line, this ISL playoff promises to be a thrilling battle. Bengaluru will look to capitalize on their home advantage, while Mumbai will rely on their rock-solid defense and recent winning momentum. Will Chhetri inspire the Blues to another playoff triumph, or will Mumbai’s unbeaten streak continue? Live telecast on JioHotstar and Star Sports.