ISL: Mumbai City FC 0-0 FC Goa – 5 talking points

Mumbai City FC and FC Goa were left to rue missed chances as the teams played out a goalless draw and as a result, were forced to split points at the DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai.Though the game failed to see a goal, it was an engaging and interesting game with both teams showing intent to get forward and if not for some fine saves and last ditch defending, the game could have seen goals and we could have had a different result altogether.This was the 8th draw in the last 10 games in the ISL, 6 of which have ended without a goal. Though there were no goals scored, it was an exciting game, and here are the talking points:  

#1 Moritz key for Mumbai; attack needs finesse

The ISL started on the worst possible note for Mumbai City FC as they slumped to a 3-0 loss at the hands of Atletico de Kolkata. But then came Andre Moritz late on in the game for the visitors who seemed to be the bright spark. And though Mumbai could not score a goal, there were already some positive signs. He then went on to score a hat-trick in the next game and gave signs of his prowess. 

He has emerged as a regular starter since and has a huge impact for the team. Andre Moritz, who was with former EPL club Bolton Wanderers and current EPL club Crystal Palace, before deciding to head to the Indian Super League.

The attacking midfielder has been pivotal to Peter Reid's plans and is the thread connecting the midfield with the strike-force. Apart from the two games where Anelka had his moment of magic, it went quiet for Mumbai City FC as Moritz lost his form.

The Brazilian seemed to be back in his groove today as he created a few chances and got to the end of a couple, only to be denied by Seda and the cross-bar. He was rewarded for his efforts as he bagged the Hero of the Match award and the attacking midfielder would like to take this confidence and form into the next game and look to be the difference again.

Though the defence has been holding well, the attack needs to pick-up as the team has managed just two goals in the last 5 games and have failed to find the back of the net at crucial times in crucial games.

If Mumbai need to go far in the tournament, they will need Anelka to hit back with support from Moritz, Subhash, Nadong and Lalrindika Ralte as they need goals coming from more than one source.