Odisha FC seek to better away record as Sergio Lobera returns to face former side Mumbai City FC

Fresh off a thrilling home victory against East Bengal, Odisha FC will seek to break ir away game losing streak when y face Mumbai City FC in ISL here on Sunday.

game will mark return of former Islanders’ he coach Sergio Lobera to familiar territory, this time at helm of Odisha FC.

Lobera, who led Mumbai City FC to a historic double in 2020-21 season, remains cherished by West Coast Brige, promising an emotional return for Spaniard.

Odisha FC would want to improve upon fact that y have conceded two-plus goals in each of ir last four matches on ro.

Lobera will insist on greater defensive discipline from his players especially when y are travelling, and given Mumbai City’s constant appliance of pressure in final third, visitors need to be wary of giving Petr Kratky’s side too much to work around with as well.

"We’re pleased with our recent performances but recognize re’s room to grow. Every match is a new challenge, and Mumbai will test us. We’re confident but focused," Lobera said.

Despite a mixed start to season, Mumbai City FC he into fixture on back of a confidence-boosting 2-1 win over FC Goa .

Goals from Nikos Karelis and Yoell van Nieff helped secure ir first victory of this season. Islanders, currently outside top six in table, will be banking on ir home vant.

"We still need to improve a lot of football, but we are on a good pathway. boys are toger, which is very important, and fighting until last minute,” Kratky said.

"So, I'm very happy for group, and again, it's part of football, where we need to just go game by game, and w we have to focus on or one." Mumbai have demonstrated scoring prowess against Odisha FC, netting at least twice in each of ir last eight encounters with Juggernauts.

Currently, on a five-match unbeaten streak against Odisha FC, Islanders will look to extend ir offensive dominance, driven by home support.

Mumbai might look to unveil ir trump card in Bipin Singh for this game, as winger has recorded nine goal contributions in fixtures against Odisha FC in ISL.

For Odisha FC, Hugo Boumous will be key. He has settled quickly into team, setting up three goals in this campaign thus far.

Match starts 7.30pm.