Both the teams have had shaky start to the season, with Mumbai being trounced by Kolkata and Pune barely escaping with a Del Piero inspired Dynamos. The form books are tossed in to the bin when derbies are on the horizon. It is all for the bragging rights and crucial 3 points at stake. What a way to begin your home campaign!
Key Battles –
Lalrindika Ralte vs Dharmaraj Ravanan
India’s superstar winger Lalrindika ‘Didika’ Ralte is one of the key players for the home side in absence of Anelka and and their marquee Freddie Ljungberg. Didika had a subdued game against Kolkata but will try to get his act together in the derby. He will have to face a stiff challenge from versatile defender Ravanan. Ravanan is a dependable and a very intelligent defender. He will have to stop the quick Didika from getting into any sort of rhythm.
Pavel ?movš vs David Trezeguet
The young defender is no mug when it comes to defending. But playing against a legend like David Trezeguet is a different ball game altogether. ?movš has experience of playing across the Europe in many leagues despite being very young. His task is cut out i.e to keep the Frenchman at bay. Stopping Trezeguet is stopping Pune as he is their key while going forward.
Man To Watch –
Mumbai City FC –
Subrata Paul –
The Indian stopper was by far the best player for Mumbai City FC against Atletico Kolkata. He will again be their main man if they want to get any positive result today.
FC Pune City –
Lenny Rodrigues
Rodrigues is your traditional central midfielder who likes to have ball at his feet every moment. He holds the key for the transition of Pune’s defence into attack.
TFM predicts a 1-1 draw.
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