Predicted Lineups
Mumbai City FC: Mohammad Nawaz (GK), Valpuia, Tiri*, Rostyn Griffiths*, Sanjeev Stalin, Jayesh Rane, Vinit Rai, Gurkirat Singh, Greg Stewart*, Bipin Singh, Jorge Pereyra Diaz
Gokulam Kerala: Abhilash Paul (GK); Nidhin Krishna, Salam Ranjan Singh, Aminou Bouba, Muhammed Saheef; Rishad PP, Edu Bedia, Sreekuttan VS, Noufal PN, Nili
The Kalinga Super Cup 2024 match between Mumbai City FC and Gokulam Kerala promises to be an intriguing battle, especially with Mumbai City FC missing key international players due to their national duties in the AFC Asian Cup 2024.
Mumbai City FC's recent 3-0 victory against Chennaiyin FC showcased their ability to bounce back from setbacks, and with coach Petr Kratky taking charge, it provides an opportunity for him to explore the squad depth. The absence of frontline players like Lallinzuala Chhangte, Rahul Bheke, Apuia, Vikram Pratap Singh, and Mehtab Singh will open doors for players like Vinit Rai, Jayesh Rane, Sanjeev Stalin, Valpuia, and Gurkirat Singh to make an impact. The flexibility of using six foreign players can also be an advantage for Coach Kratky, potentially giving more playing time to individuals like Abdenasser El Khayati.
On the other hand, Gokulam Kerala, currently sixth in the I-League, boasts a potent attack led by Spanish forward Alex Sanchez, who has scored 12 goals in 10 games. Manager Domingo Oramas has relied on Sanchez's goal-scoring prowess, supported by Edu Bedia's playmaking abilities and contributions from wingers like Sreekuttan VS and Noufal PN. The defense, led by Salam Ranjan Singh and skipper Aminou Bouba, along with goalkeeper Avilash Paul, forms a solid backline.
Gokulam Kerala, despite a recent slump in form, will look to capitalize on Mumbai City FC's missing players and regain their winning momentum. The addition of loan signing Justine Emmanuel from Kerala Blasters adds further depth and pace to their attacking options.
Overall, the clash between Mumbai City FC and Gokulam Kerala in the Kalinga Super Cup 2024 promises an exciting contest, with both teams eager to make their mark in the tournament.