The Indian Super League 2025–26 season gets underway for Mumbai City FC and Chennaiyin FC as the two sides clash at the Mumbai Football Arena on Thursday evening.
The 19:30 IST kick-off will be streamed live on FanCode and telecast on Sony Ten 2, marking the beginning of what both teams hope will be a significantly improved campaign. For Mumbai City FC, this is an opportunity to reassert themselves at home after an inconsistent 2024–25 season. Under head coach Petr Krátký, now entering his third season in charge, the Islanders are aiming for greater consistency and a stronger finish after ending last season sixth in the league table. Their campaign concluded with a heavy 0–5 defeat to Bengaluru FC in the eliminator, a result that exposed defensive vulnerabilities at a critical stage.
Mumbai City did, however, demonstrate their competitive edge in other competitions, reaching the semi-finals of the AIFF Super Cup before bowing out to eventual champions FC Goa. Against Chennaiyin last season, they held the upper hand securing a 1–0 win at home and a 1–1 draw away and they also registered a commanding 4–0 victory over the Marina Machans in the Super Cup.
Krátký has strengthened his squad with a blend of familiarity and experience. The return of Argentine forward Jorge Pereyra Díaz adds attacking sharpness, while the arrivals of Joni Kauko and Nuno Reis bolster midfield stability and defensive leadership. Crucially, Mumbai City have retained their strong Indian core, including captain Lallianzuala Chhangte, Brandon Fernandes and Vikram Partap Singh players who provide continuity and attacking thrust.
“We have built a strong foundation over the last 18 months,” Krátký said ahead of the fixture. “The objective now is consistency. It is vital we make the Mumbai Football Arena a difficult place for any team to visit. That’s our primary goal this season.”
Chennaiyin FC, meanwhile, arrive in Mumbai with a renewed sense of purpose. After finishing 11th last season, the club has undergone significant restructuring under new head coach Clifford Miranda. The former India international takes charge of his first ISL campaign as head coach and faces an immediate test against one of the league’s most tactically organised sides.
Chennaiyin’s squad has been reshaped with several experienced foreign additions. Spanish playmaker Alberto Noguera and Moroccan midfielder Mohammed Ali Bemammer bring ISL familiarity, while centre-back Eduardo Kau and forward Iñigo Martín add depth across the spine of the team. The aim is to blend experience with tactical discipline in what Miranda describes as a “fresh start” for the club.
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“It is a massive challenge to start away against Mumbai City, but it is one we embrace,” Miranda said. “Things are there to be changed, and hopefully we can change that.”
The historical context does not favour Chennaiyin. They last defeated Mumbai City in 2020 and have since endured a 14-match winless streak against the Islanders across competitions. That run underlines the psychological and tactical challenge they face on opening night.
Krátký acknowledged the unpredictability of season openers while maintaining focus on his team’s internal standards. “Chennaiyin have a new look this season. We have analysed their pre-season, but the first game is always unpredictable. We must focus on our processes and ensure we execute from the first whistle,” he said.
For Chennaiyin, the emphasis is on mentality and adaptability. Miranda highlighted that the club has been implementing a different tactical approach, one that requires patience but promises a shift in identity.
“The past is in the past. This is a fresh start for the club. It’s a new team and a new opportunity,” he said. “We need to be disciplined and ruthless when the chances come.” Defender Pritam Kotal reinforced that message, stressing the importance of starting strongly. “It is a new season now. Our main focus is to do well as a group. We have prepared well, and our focus is on the game against Mumbai. We will try to give our best and take all three points,” he said.
Mumbai captain Chhangte echoed his coach’s caution despite the historical advantage. “Chennai are really competitive. We can’t take them lightly at all. The boys are hungry. We are tirelessly working for the perfect combination. I hope you will see the passion and energy tomorrow.”
With Mumbai seeking stability and Chennaiyin chasing resurgence, the opening fixture promises a compelling tactical battle. For both sides, the result may not define the season but it will certainly set the tone.
