Mumbai City FC had a relatively less impressive Indian Super League (ISL) season by their high standards as the finished sixth in the league and exited the playoffs in the Knockout round after a heavy 5-0 loss to Bengaluru FC.

The Islanders though are trying to salvage their campaign in the Kalinga Super Cup as they aim to lift the trophy for the first time in their history. On Wednesday, Mumbai City FC face Jamshedpur FC in the semi-final

Leading their resurgence in captain Lallianzuala Chhangte who has managed managed six goals and provided two assists across 24 appearances in the league this season. He has demonstrated an upturn in form during the Kalinga Super Cup, scoring three goals and registering one assist in just two games played so far. This includes a crucial quarter-final match where he netted the winning goal against Inter Kashi, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.

Chhangte is also hoping to tranfer his club form to the international stage. The Blue Tigers are back in action in June when they make a trip to Thailand for a friendly match to prepare for their AFC Asian Cup qualifier game against Hong Kong. India drew their opening match against Bangladesh and are in need of a win and Chhangte has urged the players to take resposnibility.

“In the league (ISL), we have lots of foreigners to help us and make an impact in the tough games. But, when it comes to playing for your nation, everyone has to take responsibility,” Chhangte said dutring the interview with Sportstar.

The Indian international, who has accumulated 43 caps for his country since his debut in 2015, contributing eight goals and two assists from those appearances is particularly motivated to put behind him the recent disappointments faced by the Indian national team, including their unsuccessful campaigns in the AFC Asian Cup 2023 and the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, aiming to help the team achieve greater success in future competitions.

“It was tough to lose in the Asian Cup and also miss out on a spot in the third round of the FIFA qualifiers. It was really challenging, but at the same time, it was also, you know, a good experience, particularly for me,” Chhangte said.

“Personally, and as a team, we learned a lot as to what it takes to reach a certain level, and I believe we will come out better from that experience,” he added.

Despite recent challenges, Chhangte is optimistic about the Indian team's future, emphasising the players' unity and commitment to winning their upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifiers. He believes that with their strong coach, staff, and players, their hard work will yield positive results this year.

“We have a good coach, good staff and a good bunch of players. And, if we continue to work hard, I believe something good is happening this year,” he said as he concluded.

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2024-2025 Lallianzuala Chhangte