Mumbai City FC showcased resilience as they secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Inter Kashi FC in the Indian Super League 2025-26 at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan on Sunday. This win marked the Islanders' third triumph of the season, propelling them to third place in the standings with 11 points, while Inter Kashi remained in eighth with just five points. Lallianzuala Chhangte, the Mumbai captain, was named Player of the Match for his impactful performance.

The match began with Mumbai dominating possession and applying early pressure on the visitors. In the fourth minute, Ayush Chhikara had the first chance, but his close-range effort was comfortably saved by Inter Kashi's goalkeeper, Lluis Tarrés. Chhikara came close again in the 18th minute, narrowly missing the target after being set up by Chhangte. Despite Mumbai's control, Inter Kashi's defence held firm, with Sumeet Passi's long-range attempt in the 22nd minute blocked by the Islanders.

As the first half progressed, Mumbai continued to press, but it was Inter Kashi who nearly broke through in the 42nd minute when Sergio Llamas forced a save from Mumbai's Phurba Lachenpa. The breakthrough came in stoppage time when Chhangte's corner found Noufal PN, who slotted the ball home to give Mumbai a 1-0 lead at half-time.

The second half saw Inter Kashi come out with renewed vigour, equalising in the 51st minute. Sandip Mandi delivered a precise cross that Rohit Danu converted with a close-range header, levelling the score at 1-1. Mumbai responded immediately; just a minute later, Chhangte finished a well-worked move initiated by Jorge Ortiz, restoring the Islanders' lead at 2-1.

The match opened up as both teams sought further goals. Inter Kashi's Petkevičius tested Lachenpa with a close-range effort, while Danu attempted a long-range strike that was saved. Mumbai's Noufal also threatened, but his shot was denied by Tarrés. Inter Kashi continued to push for an equaliser, with Petkevičius firing wide and Llamas heading narrowly off target.

Late in the match, Mumbai was reduced to ten men when Hmingthanmawia Ralte received a red card. Despite Inter Kashi's late pressure, including two shots that hit the crossbar, Mumbai's defence held strong, and Lachenpa made crucial saves to secure the victory.

With this win, their first in their last three encounters, two-time former champions Mumbai City FC remain just two points off the top of the table, looking to build on their momentum in their upcoming match against defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant on 20 March.

Results: Mumbai City FC 2 (Noufal PN 45’+6, Lallianzuala Chhangte 52’) beat Inter Kashi FC 1 (Rohit Danu 51’)