. Mumbai City FC and NorthEast United FC, two teams representing two regions in India, vying for a spot in the playoffs go head to head on Wednesday, in Match 23 of the Hero Indian Super League. Mumbai City assistant coach Oscar Bruzon emphasised on the importance of a home victory against playoff chasing NorthEast United FC.
Both teams, Mumbai City and NorthEast United FC, dislodged themselves from the last spot with two consecutive victories and will look to build on in the hopes of setting their season straight. Mumbai City FC assistant coach Oscar Bruzon was quick to underline the importance of a home victory to help in their ambitions of a playoff spot.
a This is a must win game for us. We are now playing at home and will soon finish the run of five home games. It will be tough for us when we play away, so we have to take the maximum points now. We have better chances now since we are playing at home,a Bruzon said during the pre-match media briefing.a
Bruzon and Manager Nicolas Anelka finally seems to have clicked on the right combination in the defence, having been able to shut out their opponents in recent matches.
a We are being consistent in defence. Opponents have not been able to create many chances. We are keeping our opponents under watch. When you are confident at the back, the attacking players also feel confident.a
NorthEast United FC, who have been poor travelers, have their own ambitions and the two consecutive victories at home have provided them with some breathing space. The Highlanders, who make the trip across the country, will look to change their form in away matches against fellow playoff spot contenders Mumbai City FC.
NEUFC manager Cesar Farias is ready to forget about previous results and is looking forward to the upcoming matches.
a The win is in the past. Now ita s a different moment. Ita s important to be mentally prepared (for this game). Now, we have to focus on the present, (the) present is 90 minutes. We must have the ambition to collect (full) points
a We have respect for Mumbai City. They are an excellent team and have been winning,a he said.
