(Football news) Reigning Indian Super League champions Mumbai City FC were held to a goalless 0-0 draw against SC East Bengal at the Tilak Maidan. The result meant that the Islanders reclaimed the top spot on the league table despite the fact that they remain winless in 4 matches while SCEB haven’t won a game in their last 10.

The first opportunity came through Igor Anglo but the attempt was saved by Arindam Bhattacharja. SC East Bengal’s Daniel Chima Chukwu also had a good opportunity but failed to hit the target. The Red and Gold Brigade faced an early setback after Joyner Laurenco was forced to be replaced by Ankit Mukherjee due to an injury.

The teams failed to create many clear cut opportunities in the first half even though Mumbai City FC dominated possession but failed to find space behind SCEB’s back line. Both teams went into the half-time break on level terms as Mohammad Rafique was brought on in the second half as a replacement for Bikash Jairo. 

MCFC had claims for a penalty denied as Adil Khaan was appeared to have been fouled by Cassio Gabriel inside the box. Gabriel subsequently attempted a long range strike which was parried away by Arindam Bhattacharja. It was clear that the MCFC players began to get frustrated by the proceedings as Ahmed Jahouh came close to an opening goal with a long range strike around the 60th minute mark.

SC East Bengal defended resolutely in the final stages of the match, denying Mumbai City FC any clear cut opportunities to grab a late winner. The Islanders gave it their all to secure three points when the fourth official announced five minutes of stoppage time but failed to break the deadlock as both teams settled for a point each.

Mumbai City FC will next face Bengaluru FC at the PJN Stadium on 10th January while SC East Bengal face a tough test against Jamshedpur FC at the Athletic Stadium on Tuesday, 11th January.

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