(Football news) A second half goal by Rahul Bheke helped league leaders Mumbai City FC remain four points ahead of second place Jamshedpur FC and end Chennaiyin FC’s unbeaten run in the Indian Super League. An 86th minute winner by Bheke who capitalized on Vishal Kaith’s error was enough to secure the points in the quest to defend their title. With this result, Mumbai City FC has 15 points from six matches while Chennaiyin FC are fifth with eight points from five matches.

Despite Chennaiyin FC having the better start, Mumbai City FC soon reverted to their possession based football and dictated the tempo of the game. The first chance fell to Igor Angulo after Vishal Kaith made an error collecting the ball but the 37 year old’s shot hit the outside of the post. The Spaniard then had another chance to break the deadlock in the 22nd minute when Ahmed Jahouh dinked a delightful opportunity but the seasoned striker shot wide. 

Chennaiyin FC struggled to get a grip on the match as Mumbai City FC had the lion's share of possession and it was the same story in the second half as the league leaders attempted to break down the opposition’s defence. Gabriel had an opportunity in the 70th minute but Vishal Kaith pulled off an inspirational double save, much to the frustration of Mumbai City FC.  ngulo was substituted for Ygor Catatau as Mumbai head coach Des Buckingham tried to bring some fresh faces and get the elusive goal.

The reigning champions’ relentless efforts paid dividends in the 86th minute from an unlikely source as Rahul Bheke scored his first goal, nodding home from Jahouh’s free kick. Chennaiyin FC looked to respond immediately as Ariel Borysiuk’s 40 yard shot in the 89th minute went over the bar as his side lost their first game of the season.

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