ISL 2023-24: It’s not too difficult to play with Yoell van Nieff – Lalengmawia Ralte

Mumbai City FC youngster Lalengmawia Ralte has revealed it’s not difficult to play with Yoell van Nieff and feels the Dutchman makes his job easier in the midfield. Earlier in the off-season, former Mumbai City FC’s talisman Ahmed Jahouh parted ways with the club to join Odisha FC but the Islanders were able to fill his big shoes with the signing of Van Nieff.

Meanwhile, Lalengmawia Ralte scored the winner against Kerala Blasters in the 66th minute at the Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai on Sunday to help his team take three points home.

Apuia said after the game, “They know us very well and that we like to play through the midfield. But we had another plan for that and the wingers played well. Luckily, we won the match.”

“As soon as they scored the equalizer, I thought it was going to be a draw. I knew that I needed to work hard and at least contribute to a goal, if not score the goal. I worked very hard and that one was a bit lucky as well. We had a lot of difficulties playing out (from the back) but I scored the second goal. I have a lot of goals coming,” he added.

While adjusting to Van Nieff’s style of play, Ralte said, “It’s a little different playing with Van Nieff. Jahouh is a player who likes to get the ball and distribute it, but with Van Nieff, he is a little bit more concentrated in his position and coordinates with me very well. So it’s not too difficult to play with him.”

On the other hand, Jorge Pereyra Diaz continued his purple patch as he once again scored for the Islanders.

Ralte showered praise on the Argentine, “It is great to have Diaz in the team, because not only in scoring, he helps us in defending too. His work rate is very important for the way we play.”

Mumbai City FC will next take on Hyderabad FC at the Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai on 28th October.