ISL 2025-26: Mumbai City start off with narrow Victory over Chennaiyin FC

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Mumbai City FC launched their ISL 2025-26 campaign on a high, securing a gritty 1-0 win over Chennaiyin FC in Match 7 at the Mumbai Football Arena. Pritam Kotal's unfortunate 48th-minute own goal proved decisive, handing the Islanders all three points in a tense, low-scoring affair.

The match was a midfield slog, with both sides neutralizing each other effectively. Clear chances were gold dust in the first half. Jorge Pereyra Díaz drew a superb save from Mohammad Nawaz after a clever through ball from Jorge Ortiz. Moments later, Brandon Fernandes-sparkling in midfield-picked out Lallianzuala Chhangte at the far post. The winger's exquisite touch set up Ortiz, but his shot was parried away.

Chennaiyin pinned hopes on long balls to target men Irfan Yadwad and new signing Iñigo Martín, yet Mumbai's defense stood resolute. The visitors earned five corners without rattling Phurba Lachenpa, as wingers' crosses were snuffed out-Valpuia making two key clearances.

Mumbai ramped up intensity post-restart, winning an early corner. Four minutes in, Joni Kauko's cross for Pereyra Díaz took a wicked deflection off Kotal, looping past a stranded Nawaz.

Chennaiyin responded by hogging possession, but their wide attacks followed the same script-crosses into a packed box. Mumbai's backline, led by the excellent Akash Mishra, stayed compact. The visitors amassed 15 corners, including four frantic late ones chasing parity, but fluffed their best shot: Mandar Rao Dessai mishit a recycled set-piece in stoppage time.

The home side dug deep to protect their slender lead, thrilling the crowd. Mishra pocketed Player of the Match for his commanding display. This opens Mumbai's account strongly, setting a solid tone for the season ahead.