ISL 2023-24: We just tried to stay positive and kept believing – Petr Kratky after ISL Cup win

Mumbai City FC’s Petr Kratky said they just tried to stay positive and kept believing after beating Mohun Bagan Super Giant by 3-1 in the Indian Super League final at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium, Kolkata on Saturday.

Despite dominating the first half, the Islanders were put under pressure as the Mariners scored the opening goal of the evening at the cusp of half-time. Jason Cummings scored against the run of play to put the home team in front to the delight of more than 60,000 home fans.

However, Mumbai City FC bounced back in style as Jorge Pereyra Diaz scored in the 53rd minute to equalize for the visitors. Boris Singh then gave a 2-1 lead to his team in the 81st minute whereas Jakub Vojtus scored in the injury time.

“We just tried to stay positive and keep believing. As soon as we scored the first one we knew that we are on a good pathway. We scored the second and the third and we knew we were done,” he said in the post-match press conference.

Mumbai City FC dominated the possession with 57.4% and took 15 shots, including four shots on target.

“We were better in the first half in terms of football, in my opinion. We got the goal. Mohun Bagan SG is a quality team. Dimitri Petratos can shoot and Jason Cummings is always there to tap it in. We know they are a dangerous team but our approach was totally different than what it was two weeks ago. The boys executed it and we got rewarded,” he expressed.

Mumbai City lost the League Shield title to Mohun Bagan Super Giant but brought their best in the ISL final. The Islanders has now won two ISL Cups and as many League Shield titles.

“It means we are on a good pathway. Again there were obstacles in front of us during the season when we had hard times and good times. But we were privileged to get to two finals in front of a fantastic crowd. Once we lost we had to learn from it and the second chance we had, we took it. Sometimes in football, you get lows and highs. Very proud of the group and how we handled it. It means a lot to the club. For me and my family as well. Because it’s not easy. You don’t get this opportunity all the time every year. We are grateful but we have to stay humble and just keep working,” he said.