ISL 2023-24: Happy that we bounced back: Mumbai City FC’s Petr Kratky after 1-0 win against East Bengal FC

Mumbai City FC’s head coach Petr Kratky was delighted after their 1-0 win against East Bengal FC in the 15th match week of the Indian Super League at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Tuesday.

Iker Guarrotxena scored in the 24th minute of the game to put the visitors in front. In the end, Guarrotxena’s goal was enough to seal three points for the Islanders.

The tourists had 66.6% possession and took three shots on target against Red and Gold Brigade as they dominated the contest.

“Today was a very good game from us and we knew East Bengal FC is a very hard opposition,” Kratky said in the post-match press conference.

“They are a good team. They proved it in the Kalinga Super Cup and also they proved it the first time at our home, I think it was a draw. We tried to use our strength and do things better, quicker, you know, and we got rewarded today,” added Kratky.

Praising Guarrotxena for his goal, he added, “Also we have Iker who scored the goal. He has had a very good game. So everything is starting to link together and you know, we get rewarded today with good football and win.”

Meanwhile, Mumbai City FC were stunned by 3-2 in their previous game by Jamshedpur FC despite taking a 2-0 lead. The tactician feels the players were able to take their lessons after that loss.

Kratky said, “You have high and low. It’s very important, we go game by game and we learn from it. And, the boys, the group, did a fantastic job,” he said.

“And again we had a very good week of training, you know, and we learned from our mistakes. You know, we learn how to manage the games, and we prove it today. So hopefully we just keep building on it, you know, and, going forward, this is what I’m looking for. You know, we bounced back and I’m very happy for the group and they did so well today,” he added.

Mumbai City FC will next take on Bengaluru FC at the Mumbai Football Arena on Sunday.