Synopsis
Mumbai City FC's captain Lallianzuala Chhangte expresses his excitement about the ISL debut in Shillong, emphasizing its potential to enhance Meghalaya's football culture. He hopes for strong fan support and positive experiences during the matches, while the head coach, Petr Kratky, looks forward to experiencing the local culture and playing in new conditions.Key Takeaways
- Chhangte is thrilled about ISL in Shillong.
- Potential to uplift Meghalaya's football culture.
- Hope for strong fan turnout during matches.
- Mumbai City FC's playoff aspirations continue.
- NorthEast United FC poses a competitive challenge.
Shillong, Feb 5 (NationPress) The captain of Mumbai City FC, Lallianzuala Chhangte, is excited to participate in the Indian Super League’s (ISL) inaugural match in Meghalaya, where NorthEast United FC will host the Islanders at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong this Friday.
Chhangte welcomes this opportunity to elevate the football culture in the north-eastern state, as he firmly believes in its potential to foster a vibrant sports community. The 27-year-old is particularly enthusiastic about the Highlanders' final three home league matches of the season being held in Shillong, with Bengaluru FC and East Bengal FC set to visit soon.
Sharing his optimistic perspective, Chhangte stated, “Shillong is a beautiful place and to play an ISL game there will be lovely. I hope that the fans turn up in big numbers, not just the NorthEast United FC fans, but also the supporters of Mumbai City FC.”
“I am positive about the impact that the matches taking place there will have on the footballing culture of Meghalaya. It gives the people there a never-seen opportunity to experience an ISL game live. I hope we put up a good match for them and come back victorious, of course!”
The head coach of Mumbai City FC, Petr Kratky, shared similar sentiments, expressing eagerness to perform in distinct conditions.
“To be honest, I am looking forward to going there. Everyone told me it's a very nice place with very nice people. So I am looking forward to being there and seeing a part of India I have not seen yet. I am looking forward to playing away in different, much cooler conditions, and also playing good football and trying to win,” Kratky remarked.
As the playoffs approach, Mumbai City FC currently holds the sixth position, having amassed 28 points from 18 matches. With Odisha FC (25), Kerala Blasters FC (24), and Punjab FC (23) trailing closely, the competition for a top-six finish is intensifying.
Reflecting on last season’s thrilling 3-2 comeback victory against FC Goa in the semi-finals, Chhangte emphasized his team’s strong winning mentality, a trait he believes will keep them competitive for top honors.
“The first leg of the semi-final last season against FC Goa was one of the most memorable games I have played in the ISL. It showed the true spirit of the players, given how difficult the situation was. We always back ourselves to stay in the hunt for the win and I am sure we will sustain a similar mentality moving forward,” Chhangte noted.
However, the Islanders must first overcome challenges posed by NorthEast United FC, currently ranked fourth with 29 points from 19 matches. The Highlanders, unbeaten in their last eight games, will be eager to maintain their remarkable form in their new home in Shillong.