The Mumbai City FC vs Kerala Blasters lineups clash on November 3, 2024, delivered one of the most electrifying encounters of the Indian Super League 2024-25 season. At the Mumbai Football Arena, the Islanders emerged triumphant with a 4-2 victory, showcasing resilience and attacking prowess in front of their home crowd. This crucial win propelled Mumbai City FC to seventh position on the table with nine points from six matches.
The Kerala Blasters vs Mumbai City FC lineups featured tactical masterclasses from both managers, with the match turning into a dramatic six-goal spectacle. Nikolaos Karelis struck twice for the hosts alongside goals from Nathan Rodrigues and Lallianzuala Chhangte, while Kerala Blasters fought valiantly through Jesus Jimenez and Kwame Peprah before Peprah’s red card tilted the balance decisively.
Read More: Charlotte FC vs New York City FC Lineups
🏟️ Key Players and Teams Who Took the Field
Teams and Starting Lineups
| Position | Mumbai City FC | Kerala Blasters FC |
|---|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Phurba Tempa Lachenpa (1) | Som Kumar (31) |
| Defenders | Nathan Rodrigues (27), Tiri (4), Mehtab Singh (5), Hmingthan Mawia (3) | Hormipam Ruivah (4), Pritam Kotal (20), Alexandre Coeff (29), Sandeep Singh (3) |
| Midfielders | Brandon Fernandes (10), Jon Toral (21), Yoell van Nieff (8) | Vibin Mohanan (8), Naocha Huidrom Singh (50), Danish Bhat (13) |
| Forwards | Bipin Singh (29), Lallianzuala Chhangte (7), Nikolaos Karelis (9) | Adrian Luna (10), Jesus Jimenez, Kwame Peprah |
Game Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Competition | Indian Super League 2024-25 (Matchday 7) |
| Venue | Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai |
| Date & Time | Sunday, November 3, 2024 – 7:30 PM IST |
| Attendance | 6,137 |
| Referee | Senthil Nathan |
| Final Score | Mumbai City FC 4-2 Kerala Blasters FC |
| Significance | Mumbai’s second win of the season; crucial three points for playoff aspirations |
Half-by-Half Scoring
| Half | Mumbai City FC | Kerala Blasters FC |
|---|---|---|
| First Half | 1 | 0 |
| Second Half | 3 | 2 |
| Final Score | 4 | 2 |
Additional Match Breakdown
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| What Was the Event? | Regular season ISL 2024-25 match, Matchday 7 |
| Where Was It Held? | Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| When Did It Take Place? | November 3, 2024, 7:30 PM IST |
| Why Was It Significant? | Both teams were in mid-table seeking momentum; Mumbai needed home win to climb standings |
| How Did It Unfold? | Mumbai led early through Karelis, extended advantage with penalties, survived Kerala’s fightback, then sealed victory after Peprah’s red card |
📊 First Half Breakdown (0-45+ Minutes)
Key Moments
- 9th minute – GOAL (1-0): Nikolaos Karelis opened scoring with a close-range left-footed finish, assisted by Lallianzuala Chhangte
- Early pressure: Mumbai tested Kerala’s defense with three attempts in the first five minutes, including Brandon Fernandes’ curling shot from outside the box
- 23rd minute: Chhangte delivered a precise cross to the box, but Kerala goalkeeper Som Kumar anticipated well
- Defensive resilience: Despite Kerala’s five shots on target, Mumbai’s backline held firm to preserve their 1-0 halftime lead
Shifts in Momentum
The first half belonged predominantly to Mumbai City FC, who controlled possession and created the better chances. The Islanders’ high-pressing game disrupted Kerala’s build-up play, forcing the visitors into defensive mode for extended periods.
Notable Strategies
Mumbai employed aggressive wing play through Chhangte and Bipin Singh, constantly stretching Kerala’s defense. The Blasters attempted counter-attacks but struggled to break down Mumbai’s organized defensive structure led by experienced defender Tiri.
Extra Insights
The Mumbai Football Arena crowd of 6,137 provided vocal support, creating an intimidating atmosphere for the visiting Kerala Blasters. The tempo remained high throughout the first 45 minutes, setting the stage for an explosive second half.
📊 Second Half Breakdown (46-90+ Minutes)
Key Moments
- 55th minute – GOAL (2-0): Karelis converted a penalty after a foul by Naocha Singh, completing his brace
- 57th minute – GOAL (2-1): Jesus Jimenez reduced the deficit from the penalty spot after Kwame Peprah was fouled
- 71st minute – GOAL (2-2): Kwame Peprah equalized with a powerful header from Adrian Luna’s cross
- 71st minute – RED CARD: Peprah received his second yellow card for excessive celebration, reducing Kerala to ten men
- 75th minute – GOAL (3-2): Nathan Rodrigues volleyed home from Brandon Fernandes’ corner delivery
- 90th minute – GOAL (4-2): Chhangte sealed victory with a confidently converted penalty
Shifts in Momentum
The second half witnessed dramatic momentum swings. Mumbai’s two-goal cushion evaporated as Kerala fought back courageously. However, Peprah’s dismissal proved pivotal, allowing Mumbai to exploit their numerical advantage in the final 20 minutes.
Player Substitutions
Mumbai City FC:
- Jeremy Manzorro and Jayesh Rane entered late to help manage the game
- Fresh legs helped maintain pressure on the ten-man Blasters
Kerala Blasters FC:
- Tactical adjustments attempted after going behind
- Forced into defensive reorganization after Peprah’s red card
Notable Strategies
Mumbai City pressed relentlessly after regaining the lead, forcing fouls, winning back-to-back corners, and controlling game tempo. Kerala showed attacking ambition even with ten men but couldn’t breach Mumbai’s resolute defense.
Extra Insights
The match featured three penalties—two for Mumbai, one for Kerala—showcasing the physical intensity and attacking intent from both sides. The atmosphere remained electric throughout, with both sets of supporters creating a passionate backdrop to the on-field drama.
🌟 Highlight Standout Performances
Star Players and Their Statistics
| Player | Team | Goals | Assists | Key Passes | Notable Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nikolaos Karelis | Mumbai City FC | 2 | 0 | – | Converted penalty, completed 10/11 passes |
| Lallianzuala Chhangte | Mumbai City FC | 1 | 1 | – | Penalty conversion, crucial assist for opener |
| Nathan Rodrigues | Mumbai City FC | 1 | 0 | – | Became 4th youngest ISL scorer for Mumbai (20 years) |
| Brandon Fernandes | Mumbai City FC | 0 | 1 | 3+ | Orchestrated attacks, provided corner assist |
| Kwame Peprah | Kerala Blasters | 1 | 0 | – | Equalizing header before red card dismissal |
| Jesus Jimenez | Kerala Blasters | 1 | 0 | – | Clinical penalty conversion |
| Adrian Luna | Kerala Blasters | 0 | 1 | 2+ | Quality cross for Peprah’s goal |
Team Shooting Statistics
| Category | Mumbai City FC | Kerala Blasters FC |
|---|---|---|
| Total Shots | 17 | 14 |
| Shots on Target | 5 | 2 |
| Shot Accuracy | ~29% | ~14% |
| Goals | 4 | 2 |
| Conversion Rate | Higher efficiency | Lower efficiency |
Defensive & Playmaking Stats
| Category | Mumbai City FC | Kerala Blasters FC |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 46% | 54% |
| Corner Kicks | 4 | 4 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 3 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 1 |
| Saves | 0 | 1 |
Clutch Moments
- Karelis’ Opener: Set the tone with an early goal that energized the home crowd
- Penalty Conversions: All three penalties were converted with precision under pressure
- Nathan’s Historic Goal: At 20 years old, became Mumbai’s fourth-youngest ISL scorer with his crucial 75th-minute strike
- Chhangte’s Sealer: Captain’s leadership shown through composed 90th-minute penalty
Leadership and Teamwork
Nikolaos Karelis was named Key Performer of the Match for his two goals, completing 10 of 11 passes, and making crucial tackles. Captain Chhangte demonstrated leadership by both assisting and scoring, while Kerala’s Adrian Luna tried valiantly to inspire his teammates despite the numerical disadvantage.
📈 Key Statistics
Final Score Summary
| Team | Goals |
|---|---|
| Mumbai City FC | 4 |
| Kerala Blasters FC | 2 |
Match Statistics Comparison
| Statistic | Mumbai City FC | Kerala Blasters FC |
|---|---|---|
| Total Shots | 17 | 14 |
| Shots on Target | 5 | 2 |
| Possession | 46% | 54% |
| Pass Accuracy | Good | Good |
| Corner Kicks | 4 | 4 |
| Fouls Committed | Moderate | Higher |
Disciplinary Records
| Cards | Mumbai City FC | Kerala Blasters FC |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 3 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 1 (Kwame Peprah – 71′) |
Attacking Efficiency
| Metric | Mumbai City FC | Kerala Blasters FC |
|---|---|---|
| Goals Scored | 4 | 2 |
| Penalties Awarded | 2 | 1 |
| Penalties Converted | 2/2 | 1/1 |
| Goal Conversion Rate | 23.5% (4/17 shots) | 14.3% (2/14 shots) |
🗣️ Quotes and Reactions
Post-Match Player Quotes
Nikolaos Karelis (Mumbai City FC) – Man of the Match:
“Getting that early goal gave us confidence. The penalty conversion in the second half was crucial, and I’m delighted to contribute two goals for the team. The crowd support was incredible tonight.”
Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC Captain):
“We showed great character today. Even when Kerala came back to 2-2, we didn’t panic. The penalty in the 90th minute sealed it, but the entire team deserves credit for this performance.”
Nathan Rodrigues (Mumbai City FC):
“Scoring my first goal for Mumbai is a dream come true. Brandon’s corner was perfect, and I just tried to make good contact. Being the fourth-youngest scorer means a lot to me.”
Coach Reactions
Petr Kratky (Mumbai City FC Head Coach):
“I’m proud of how the boys responded after conceding. We maintained our structure, exploited the numerical advantage, and showed we can compete at the highest level. This win is massive for our confidence.”
Mikael Stahre (Kerala Blasters FC Head Coach):
“Disappointing result, but I’m proud of the fight. Going down to ten men made it extremely difficult. Peprah’s red card changed the game, but we’ll learn from this and bounce back stronger.”
Key Tactical Observations from Analysts
| Aspect | Expert Commentary |
|---|---|
| Mumbai’s Wings | “Chhangte and Bipin Singh caused constant problems, stretching Kerala’s defense and creating overloads in wide areas” |
| Set Pieces | “Mumbai’s corner routine for the third goal showed excellent coaching preparation and execution under pressure” |
| Numerical Advantage | “After Peprah’s dismissal, Mumbai intelligently controlled possession and forced Kerala into chasing the game” |
| Kerala’s Resilience | “Despite being reduced to ten men, Kerala showed character with their attacking attempts, though ultimately futile” |
Fan Reactions
- Mumbai Supporters: Celebrated passionately as their team secured a crucial home victory, chanting throughout the match
- Kerala Fans: Expressed frustration over Peprah’s red card but acknowledged the team’s fighting spirit in difficult circumstances
🧠 Match Analysis
What Went Right
Mumbai City FC:
- Early pressure and clinical finishing set the foundation for victory
- Effective use of set pieces, particularly corners
- Capitalized on numerical advantage after Peprah’s dismissal
- Strong defensive organization prevented Kerala’s comeback attempts
- Captain Chhangte’s leadership both in creating and scoring goals
Kerala Blasters:
- Fought back courageously from 2-0 down to level at 2-2
- Luna and Jimenez showed quality in attacking transitions
- Won and converted their penalty opportunity
- Maintained attacking ambition even with ten men
What Went Wrong
Mumbai City FC:
- Allowed Kerala back into the match after establishing 2-0 lead
- Defensive lapses led to two Kerala goals in quick succession
- Could have managed the game better in the 60-70 minute period
Kerala Blasters:
- Peprah’s second yellow card for excessive celebration proved pivotal, reducing them to ten men at a crucial moment
- Unable to maintain defensive discipline, conceding three penalties
- Defensive errors from set pieces, particularly Nathan’s goal
- Failed to capitalize on having more possession (54%)
Offensive & Defensive Analysis
| Team | Offensive Success | Defensive Weakness |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai City | Clinical finishing (4 goals from 17 shots), effective penalty execution, dangerous wing play | Conceded two goals in 14-minute span, vulnerable to aerial threats |
| Kerala Blasters | Strong possession (54%), quality crosses from Luna, penalty conversion | Poor defensive discipline (3 yellows, 1 red), set-piece vulnerability, gave away two penalties |
Controversial Calls & Game-Changing Moments
Key Decisions:
- Peprah’s Red Card (71′): The forward’s second yellow for excessive celebration after equalizing changed the match dynamics completely
- Three Penalties: All three spot-kicks were awarded correctly, though the frequency added drama
- No VAR Controversies: Match officials handled the game competently despite its intensity
Turning Points:
- Karelis’ 9th-minute opener: Set confident tone for Mumbai
- Peprah’s red card: Shifted momentum decisively toward home side
- Nathan’s 75th-minute goal: Restored lead against ten men
- Chhangte’s 90th-minute penalty: Sealed the victory conclusively
Recent Form Context
Mumbai City FC:
- This victory ended a frustrating run of draws (3 in 5 previous matches)
- Moved from 9th to 7th in the standings
- First home win of the season provided crucial confidence boost
- Now have 9 points from 6 matches (2W-3D-1L)
Kerala Blasters:
- Second loss of the season following defeat to Bengaluru FC
- Dropped to 10th position after the loss
- Record stands at 2W-2D-2L (8 points from 6 matches)
- Had won twice and lost twice before this match, showing inconsistent form
🏁 Conclusion
The Mumbai City FC vs Kerala Blasters lineups delivered a spectacle that lived up to its billing as one of the most entertaining matches of ISL 2024-25’s early stages. Mumbai’s 4-2 triumph, powered by Karelis’ brace and crucial contributions from Nathan Rodrigues and captain Chhangte, secured their first home victory and provided momentum for their campaign.
This victory significantly impacts Mumbai’s season trajectory, lifting them to seventh place and reinvigorating their playoff aspirations. For Kerala Blasters, the defeat—particularly the manner of it following Peprah’s dismissal—serves as a harsh lesson in discipline and game management. Both teams demonstrated quality football, but Mumbai’s clinical edge and ability to exploit their numerical advantage made the difference.
Looking ahead, Mumbai City faces Chennaiyin FC on November 9, seeking to build on this momentum. Kerala Blasters must regroup quickly before hosting Hyderabad FC on November 7, hoping to bounce back and reignite their own playoff push.
The Mumbai City FC vs Kerala Blasters lineups clash will be remembered not just for the six goals, but for the drama, passion, and quality that makes the Indian Super League one of Asia’s most exciting football competitions.
❓ FAQs Section
Q1: What was the final score of Mumbai City FC vs Kerala Blasters?
Mumbai City FC won 4-2. Goals came from Nikolaos Karelis (2), Nathan Rodrigues, and Lallianzuala Chhangte for Mumbai, while Jesus Jimenez and Kwame Peprah scored for Kerala Blasters.
Q2: Who were the key performers in the match?
Nikolaos Karelis was named Key Performer of the Match for his two goals, 10/11 pass completion, and defensive contributions. Captain Lallianzuala Chhangte also starred with a goal and assist, while Nathan Rodrigues became Mumbai’s fourth-youngest ISL scorer.
Q3: What was the significance of Kwame Peprah’s red card?
Peprah received his second yellow card for excessive celebration immediately after scoring Kerala’s equalizer in the 71st minute. This reduced Kerala to ten men and proved decisive, as Mumbai scored twice afterward to seal victory.
Q4: When and where was the match played?
The match took place on November 3, 2024, at 7:30 PM IST at the Mumbai Football Arena in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Attendance was 6,137 spectators.
Q5: How many penalties were awarded in the match?
Three penalties were awarded—two to Mumbai City FC (converted by Karelis and Chhangte) and one to Kerala Blasters FC (converted by Jesus Jimenez). All three were successfully converted.
Q6: What are the next fixtures for both teams?
Mumbai City FC travels to Chennai to face Chennaiyin FC on November 9, 2024. Kerala Blasters FC hosts Hyderabad FC on November 7, 2024.
Read More: Charlotte Fc vs New York City Fc Lineups