Mumbai City FC tightened their grip on the top spot in the Indian Super League (ISL) with a convincing 4-1 victory over NorthEast United FC at the Mumbai Football Arena on Tuesday. The win extends their lead at the top of the table and keeps their dream of retaining the ISL League Winners Shield title very much alive.
Vikram Partap’s Night: A Hat-Trick Hero Emerges
The star of the night was undoubtedly 22-year-old Vikram Partap Singh, who etched his name in ISL history by scoring a magnificent hat-trick. His clinical finishing and opportunistic runs proved too much for the NorthEast United FC defense to handle. Partap’s first goal came early in the third minute, capitalizing on a delightful assist from Dutch midfielder Yoell van Nieff. He doubled the lead just seven minutes later, showing his predatory instincts by tapping home a rebound off the crossbar.
Mumbai City FC Dominates from Start to Finish
Mumbai City FC dominated the entire match, dictating the pace of play and creating numerous scoring opportunities. Bipin Singh nearly extended the lead with a powerful left-footed shot that rattled the crossbar. Van Nieff also got on the scoresheet just before halftime, converting a penalty kick awarded for a foul on Akash Mishra.
Second Half Action and NorthEast United’s Brief Resurgence
The second half saw NorthEast United FC pull a goal back through Jithin M.S. in the 79th minute. However, their joy was short-lived as Vikram Partap completed his hat-trick just a minute later, finishing off a brilliant assist from Lallianzuala Chhangte. NorthEast United’s misery was compounded further when youngster Parthib Gogoi received a red card in stoppage time.
Mumbai City FC Marches On, NorthEast United’s Playoff Hopes Dented
This emphatic victory strengthens Mumbai City FC’s position at the top of the table with 39 points from 19 games. Meanwhile, NorthEast United FC’s playoff hopes take a significant hit as they remain in ninth place with 20 points.