Odisha FC vs Mumbai FC Prediction: Both the teams won their opening fixture and will be looking to make two in two

Odisha FC will welcome Mumbai FC in Gameweek 2 of the Indian Super League at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneshwar. Both the teams won their opening fixture and will be looking to make two in two. Who will win? 

It appears that both of these teams commenced their new season even before the commencement of the ISL season, as they are engaged in a quest for continental glory, participating in the AFC Cup, which is the second-tier club competition in Asia.

Lobera's squad faced a challenging start in that tournament, suffering a disheartening 0-4 defeat against Mohun Bagan Super Giant. However, they managed to rebound with an impressive 2-0 victory against Chennaiyin. During this match, Jerry Mawihmingthanga and Diego Mauricio contributed to the scoreline with their goals, marking a positive start to Odisha's season.

Given their successful debut in the tournament, it's possible that Lobera may opt for the same starting XI that played against Chennaiyin, despite recognizing the potential for improvement, particularly in one specific area.

In the previous match, Fiji international Roy Krishna started for the Kalinga Warriors. However, Brazilian striker Mauricio was introduced in the second half and made an immediate impact by netting the team's second goal. With no injury concerns requiring Lobera's attention, the likely alteration to the Odisha starting lineup may involve Mauricio replacing Krishna.

Amrinder Singh; Amey Ranawade, Mourtada Fall, Carlos Delgado, Jerry Lalrinzuala; Ahmed Jahouh, Lenny Rodrigues; Jerry Mawihmingthanga, Puitea, Isak Vanlalruatfela; Diego Mauricio.

Mumbai City's AFC Cup journey follows a similar trajectory, albeit they participate in the premier club competition in Asia, the AFC Champions League. Their performance against Iran's Nassaji Mazandaran was commendable, yet they ultimately suffered a 0-2 defeat.

However, Des Buckingham's team demonstrated resilience by swiftly putting that setback behind them and commencing their ISL campaign with a 2-1 victory against NorthEast United. In that match, Argentine striker Jorge Prereyra Diaz showcased his skills by netting a brace for the Islanders.

It is anticipated that Phurba Lachenpa will return to the goalkeeping role, taking over from Mohammad Nawaz, who did not meet expectations in the previous game. The defensive lineup is expected to remain unchanged, with Tiri available as an option on the bench. Nevertheless, it is unlikely that Buckingham will make alterations to the combination of his overseas players.

The left-wing position, currently occupied by Bipin Singh, faces uncertainty, as other contenders such as Vikram Pratap Singh and Ayush Chhikara eagerly await their chances to make an impact.

Phurba Lachenpa; Rahul Bheke, Rostyn Griffiths, Mehtab Singh, Akash Mishra; Yoell van Nieff, Apuia Ralte; Lallianzuala Chhangte, Greg Stewart, Bipin Singh; Jorge Pereyra Diaz.

Mumbai City is poised to secure their fourth consecutive victory against Odisha with a narrow win in their upcoming encounter. As one of India's premier clubs, Mumbai City currently holds the title of Indian champions, having clinched the league championship last season. They will be continuing thier momentum in the new season. Expect both the teams to score in this game.