Mumbai City FC were sealed as the double defending champions failed to qualify for the semi-finals at the PJN Stadium, Fatorda after a 2-1 loss to Hyderabad FC in the Indian Super League (ISL). The result confirmed all four semifinalists as Mumbai’s defeat cleared the way for Kerala Blasters.
Rohit Danu (14′) gave the Nizam an early lead with a fitting end, which was doubled by Joel Chianis (41′) before the first half ended. Murtada Fall (76′) pulled one back in the second half but it was not enough to stop the loss.
ISL 2021-22: House , fixtures , Result , Mark sheet , photos
A positive start to the game by Hyderabad FC was rewarded with an opening goal from Rohit Danu. The striker was lucky to finish with the ball after several deflections, but did not make a mistake in finishing at the far post within the first 15 minutes. Souvik Chakraborty was hit a few minutes before the half-hour mark, but he was straight on Phurba Lachenpa in goal.
The Islanders went ahead in search of an equalizer and saw Ameya Ranavade side-netting. Then, Vikram Pratap Singh got a shot on target from the right side, but it was not enough to equalize. However, at the stroke of the 40th minute, Joel Chienis scored against the run-of-play after being caught on a brilliant aerial by Yasser Mohamed. The Australian scored from a face-off position to extend HFC’s lead to two and gave MCFC a mountain to climb in the second half.
Mumbai City FC went all guns blazing in the second half, knowing they had to win the match at all costs. However, his attempts at the goal were quelled by a strong defense from a well-organized HFC team. Manolo Marquez was forced to make changes after the hour mark as Danu pulled his hamstring and was replaced by Akash Mishra.
When all hopes of a comeback seemed to be running out, Murtada Faul scored a goal with 15 minutes remaining in the match. The Islanders clearly lacked motivation in the final third and anything worthwhile came from Fall’s head. Despite getting five minutes extra time for stoppage, MCFC could not find the target to turn the game around and lost which would end their campaign as well.
Hyderabad FC will next feature in the semi-finals which will start from March 11. For Mumbai City FC, the season is over.
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