#2 Dogged defending and snatching points
It is true that goals win matches. But for the Westerners, their rock-solid defence has given them the edge in the competition. They have conceded the least number of goals (8) of the league stage. The coordination in the backline has been top notch from the Mumbaikars. Lucian Goian has been their rock, leading the charts for most number of tackles (67).
Mumbai have managed to score only 16 goals, 9 less than 7th placed Chennaiyin FC. Yet they have ruled the league stage and enjoy the top spot. An impressive goal difference of +8 justifies their indomitable climb to the zenith of the table.
With only 8 goals conceded, the message was loud and clear. Defensive units were austere in the face of immense attack. This managed to fix the goal conceded stat in favour of the Mumbaikars.
Alexandre’s men have kept 8 clean sheets in the group stage, making it a record across all the three editions of the tournament. This has been possible due to the rugged approach of the team. A compact midfield and a packed defense have kept the opposition attackers at bay.