ISL 2024-25: Mumbai coach Kratky confirms Brandon will miss knockout clash against Bengaluru, Chhangte doubtful

Over the past seasons, Mumbai City has acclimatised itself to being on the top half of the table, but there has been a change in the script in the 2024-25 season.

The defending Indian Super League (ISL) cup champion dragged itself to the final playoff spot, finishing the group stages with 36 points. And should Petr Kratky and his men defend its crown, it would need to get the better of Bengaluru FC in an away clash on Saturday.

Playing away preferable for Mumbai? 

The Mumbai Football Arena has not been a happy hunting ground for the Islanders this season, who have more away matches than at home. Therefore, statistics say that the knockout clash at the Kanteerava Stadium can aid Mumbai’s chances of winning but head coach Kratky begs to differ. 

ALSO READ: ISL 24-25 Playoffs: Apuia doubtful for Mohun Bagan SG’s semifinal clash

“I don’t think so. We play every game the same way. We try to win every match- whether it is at home or away. This season, we have a better away record than home, but you never know. We will have to do our best,” Kratky told the media ahead of the match. 

Missing important players

Mumbai suffered a big blow after midfielder Brandon Fernandes got injured during the recent international break in India’s 3-0 win against Maldives. With Tiri already ruled out and Lallianzuala Chhangte remaining doubtful, Kratky knows that his men face an uphill task against Bengaluru.

“Brandon and Tiri are in medical hands right now. I don’t think they will be available against Bengaluru, but the injury is not too serious. Our medical staff is fantastic. They are doing their best to get them up and running as soon as possible. Chhangte also looks good, and we will have two training sessions to see and assess if he can have any impact on the Bengaluru game,” Kratky said. 

Spotlight on Karelis

With Mumbai facing the prospect of missing crucial players in the final third, Nikos Karelis will have an even bigger responsibility of finding the net. While Kratky emphasised the importance of teamwork, he will be depending on his Greek forward to come good in the crucial knockout fixture. 

“ It is important as a striker to score more goals, but I need to be more consistent. There is always room for improvement. So, I have to look forward and help the team get more points,” said Karelis, who has 10 goals (joint fifth-highest) in 18 appearances this season in the ISL, along with two assists. 

ALSO READ: Who will be David Catala’s backroom staff at Kerala Blasters?

Describing Bengaluru as a “hard team to break down”, Karelis said that what the team should focus on is being patient and sticking to its style of football. 

“Morale is very good in the camp right now. Everyone is pushing each other to do better in training. We will be playing a tough opponent but we believe in ourselves – we are a good team. Everyone is ready for the next fight,” the Greek said.