When the two teams met earlier in the season, Delhi Dynamos FC eked out a thrilling 2-1 victory in their away game at the Balewadi Sports Complex.
Placed second in the standings, Pune FC would look to exact revenge at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, which witnessed a record turnout in the home team's last game against Atletico de Kolkata on November 14.
Dynamos President Agarwal said, "With Delhi Dynamos playing exceedingly well, the atmosphere and support at the stadium is energising. It is an interesting phase of the tournament and we welcome all our enthusiastic fans to come and support us in this crucial game."
It will be interesting to see if Dynamos' marquee manager cum player Roberto Carlos includes Richard Gadze, who have scored in the last three matches, in the starting XI or continue with his strategy to bring the Ghanian on as a second half substitute.
In search of an elusive victory at home, the Dynamos will also be again looking upto their midfield maestro Florent Malouda to call the shots in the middle of the park.
Malouda will have Hans Mulder for company in midfield, with men like Gustavo dos Santos and Seminlen Doungel controlling the wings.
India international Robin Singh and UK-based Adil Nabi will shoulder the responsibility upfront.
After a shaky start, Dynamos' defence is gradually settling down. Brazilian World Cup winner and Real Madrid legend Carlos, who has so far made three appearances in the second edition of the league, might give himself another shot tomorrow.
Cralos has men like Anas Edathodika, Anwar Ali, John Arne Riise and Naobo Singh, among others, to chose from in defence.
As far as Pune City FC is concerned, David Platt could contemplate playing both Tuncay Sanli and Adrian Mutu upfront.
Skipper Didier Zokoro will be the visiting team's fulcrum, and is being tasked with the job of distributing the balls.
Lenny Rodrigues has also been an important player in the Stallions squad and his rise in stature has been visible this season.
The defensive midfielder has impressed with his tackles, and his interceptions too has been pivotal for Pune.
Replay showed that Marcelo could have been offside, but the goal stood. Even as Dynamos tried to come back into the game, Sony Norde dribbled past Souvik Chakraborty and slotted the ball at the far bottom corner.
As the Mumbai goalkeeper came out rushing to collect the ball, the referee called for penalty, and Marcelinho managed to beat Volpato with a wonderful spot kick. The goalkeeper guessed it correctly as he dived to the right, but the ball evaded his fingertips.
Mumbai made three changes from their 1-0 loss to Blasters. David Lalrinmuana, Boithang Haokip and Cardozo went out and in came Sony Norde, for his first appearance, Pronay Halder and Sena Ralte.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
