Mumbai City FC Faces Heavy Defeat Against Bengaluru FC in ISL Knockout Match

Mumbai City FC's Disappointing Exit from ISL

Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], March 30: The head coach of Mumbai City FC, Petr Kratky, expressed his dissatisfaction following a significant 5-0 loss to Bengaluru FC during the first knockout round of the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Sree Kanterava Stadium on Saturday, according to the official ISL website.

This defeat marks the end of Mumbai City FC's campaign, as the defending ISL Cup champions failed to reach the semi-finals after achieving this feat in the previous two seasons.

Notably, this is only the third instance where Mumbai City FC has lost by a margin of five or more goals in ISL history, and it is the first time under Kratky's management that they have conceded four or more goals in a match.

Bengaluru FC showcased an impressive performance from the start, with Suresh Singh Wangjam scoring the opening goal just nine minutes into the match. Edgar Mendez then converted a penalty to extend their lead just before halftime.

In the second half, Bengaluru FC maintained their aggressive strategy, netting three additional goals against goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa. Ryan Williams executed a remarkable solo effort to score the third goal, while substitutes Sunil Chhetri and Jorge Pereyra Diaz also contributed to the scoreline, leading to a resounding victory.

Post-match, Kratky urged his players to reflect on their performance and identify areas for improvement as their ISL journey concluded.

“We need to look in the mirror and assess ourselves. That’s where it all begins,” he stated during the press conference.

He emphasized the importance of honesty in self-assessment, urging everyone involved—players and staff alike—not to shift blame elsewhere. “We must start from within ourselves. This is the message moving forward,” he added.

Bengaluru FC capitalized on Mumbai City FC's high defensive line, scoring crucial goals in the latter half. Kratky acknowledged the need for better defensive strategies while addressing the goals conceded.

“The halftime message was straightforward; we were down 2-0 due to a penalty and the first goal. We often played with ten men due to injuries. We attempted to regroup and keep fighting, as effort is key,” he explained.

He noted that mistakes compounded as the match progressed, leading to further goals against them. “When things go wrong, they tend to go very wrong,” he remarked.

Kratky conceded that Bengaluru FC deserved the win based on their dominant display in this crucial match.

“Today was not our day. We simply weren’t good enough. Bengaluru FC earned their victory,” he concluded.

“It’s tough to concede five goals, which I believe our overall team quality does not warrant; however, the performance of both teams reflected the scoreline,” Kratky summarized.