Mumbai City FC go down against Banega’s Al-Shabab: AFC Champions League 2022

Mumbai City FC go down against Banega’s Al-Shabab: ISL side Mumbai City FC experienced a reality check on their opening game in the AF C Champions League against Al-Shabab. The final scoreline was 3-0 in favour of the Saudi Arabian side. The argentine Ever Banega helped the team with a brace and substitute Turki nailed the final blow in the coffin for Islanders.

AL-Shabab vs Mumbai City FC Highlights:

The side from Mumbai started the game very positively as they pressed the opponents from the first whistle. Moreover, the players even started their attack from the back confidently. However, the quality between the two sides came into the limelight when Al-Shabab’s wingers and fullbacks made runs after runs down the channels. The Saudi Arabian side earned a penalty when Phurba Lachenpa decided to come out for a challenge against Paulinho. However, the replay clearly showed that the player attempted a dive. Argentine Ever Banega successfully converted the penalty as Al-Shabab went to the break with a single-goal advantage.

After the restart, the Islanders showed glimpses of attacks through impressive Jahouh. However, the men in blue failed to create any clear-cut chances. In the midway of the second half, Ever Banega doubled their lead wrongfooting Phurba with a skillful finish. Meanwhile, substitute Turki added to the misery as he scored from inside the box from a perfect cross down the right.

Look Ahead:

So, this is the first game of the group stages. There are five more games to play. Certainly, Des Buckingham’s side missed the cutting edge in the final third as they missed Diego Mauricio and Igo Angulo. So, Mumbai’s search for the first elusive win continues as they will prepare for Al-Quwa. The game will take place on 11 March at 10.45 PM IST.