I-League: Can Mumbai FC get 13th time lucky?

Mumbai FC will eye their first win of the season when they host Dempo SC in the second round of the I-League at the Balewadi Sports Complex here on Sunday.

The hosts go into the game with a positive mindset after their 1-1 draw against Sporting Clube de Goa in the opener.

On the other hand, Dempo will strive to make amends after their shocking 0-3 home loss against Shillong Lajong.

Mumbai FC midfielder Climax Lawrence and defender Valeriano Rebello will be up against their former team for the first time. Lawrence, who will have Nicholas Rodrigues and Ashutosh Mehta for company in the midfield, will supply passes to Jayesh Rane and Orok Essien up front.

Dempo made numerous changes to their squad in the off-season. Defenders Simon Colosimo and Shinnosuke Honda, striker Billy Mehmet and playmaker Roberto Mendes da Silva ‘Beto’ form the nucleus of the team.

Dempo have also added India internationals, striker Jeje Lalpekhlua and midfielder Jewel Raja Shaikh, to their squad while former Mumbai FC forward Gabriel Fernandes will be up against his former team for the first time.

Mumbai have never beaten Dempo in 12 attempts, but Jamil still remains hopeful of a positive result.