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Mumbai City FC, eyeing the top spot of the ISL 2022-23 standings, will travel to Bhubaneswar to take on Odisha FC at the Kalinga Stadium on Monday, January 2.
The Islanders are currently second in the standings but can regain the top spot with a draw or even victory.
Des Buckingham's team are still the only unbeaten side in the 2022-23 Indian Super League (ISL) season, having won eight of their 11 matches.
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Mumbai City FC have been an elite attacking unit, scoring 32 goals already. Furthermore, 11 players have been on the scoresheet for the former ISL champions, showcasing their quality across the pitch. Against a resilient Odisha FC side, the Islanders will need an overall performance to maintain their winning run.
The Juggernauts, on the other hand, have struggled for consistency this season. While they've lacked attacking intensity in a couple of games, Josep Gombau's side have looked absolutely fluid in other matches. Pedro Martin's form could be a crucial factor for the hosts.
Odisha FC's Diego Mauricio will be up against his former side and the occasion could give him extra motivation to get back into the groove.
In the reverse fixture, Mumbai emerged clearly victorious with a 2-0 scoreline, thanks to an own goal from Shubham Sarangi and a late strike from Bipin Singh.
Odisha FC vs Mumbai City FC: Team News
OFC: Shubham Sarangi returned to the bench in their previous game against Kerala Blasters FC and could soon push into the starting lineup. Saul Crespo will also be available for selection after serving his suspension.
MCFC: The Islanders have no particular injury concerns.
Odisha FC vs Mumbai City FC: Predicted Lineups
OFC: Amrinder Singh (GK); Denechandra Meitei, Nikil Prabhu, Carlos Delgado, Sahil Panwar, Raynier Fernandes, Saul Crespo, Thoiba Singh, Diego Mauricio, Pedro Martin, Isaac Vanmalsawma.
MCFC: Phurba Lachenpa; Rahul Bheke, Rostyn Griffiths, Mehtab Singh, Mandar Rao Dessai; Apuia, Greg Stewart, Ahmed Jahouh; Lallianzuala Chhangte, Jorge Pereyra Diaz, Bipin Singh.
Odisha FC vs Mumbai City FC: Prediction
Mumbai City FC are unbeaten this season and are currently on a six-match winning streak. As things stand, Buckingham and Co. look completely unstoppable. However, Odisha FC, under Gombau, are a resilient outfit. They're no strangers to causing a few upsets and Monday's game could fit the billing perfectly.
Prediction: Odisha FC 1-3 Mumbai City FC
