MFA kicks off new season with expanded Mumbai Super League

by Chittu Shetty August 17, 2024

The Mumbai Football Association (MFA) kicks off the new season with an expanded Mumbai Super League, now featuring 45 teams, reflecting the increasing competitiveness of Mumbai’s football scene.

With 10 teams gaining promotion from MFA 1st Division and one relegation from Mumbai Premier League, this year’s Mumbai Super league has expanded into a 45 team battle.

Mumbai City FC were crowned champions last season, followed by India On Track and Bombay Gymkhana in second and third places, respectively. These teams were promoted to the MFA Premier League. JMJ FC was demoted to the Super League after withdrawing from the Premier League mid-season, while no other teams faced relegation.

Promoted Teams:

Several teams have been promoted to the Super League this season, including Shastri Nagar FC, Don Bosco Academy, South Mumbai United FC, Regal Sports, Rudra FC – JBU, Waves FC, Oscar Foundation, Anstrengung United, United City FC – FSA, and Bombay Gymkhana. These teams bring fresh energy and heightened competition to the league.

League Structure: The Super League is divided into four groups:

• Group A: 12 teams
• Group B: 11 teams
• Group C: 11 teams
• Group D: 11 teams

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the playoff round, starting with the quarterfinals. The top four teams in the playoffs will be promoted to the Mumbai Premier League, the top tier of Mumbai football.

Pre-Season Favorites:

Playoff Contenders:

• Somaiya FC: After finishing 5th last season, Somaiya FC enters the league with a younger squad, aiming to build on their previous momentum.
• Brothers WA: Previously known as Om SaiDham FC, Brothers WA dominated the group stage last season but faltered in the playoffs. With most of their core players returning, they are strong contenders this season.

Big Favorites:

• Mumbai Ultras: Consistently strong but often faltering at crucial moments, Mumbai Ultras appear more prepared than ever this season. Retaining key players like Aman Jangid, Joyson Chettiar, and Shreyas Zele, the team demonstrated their prowess by dominating the Independence Cup 2024, setting the tone for the Super League.
• Tarun Sporting: A team that garnered attention last season, Tarun Sporting faces challenges with the absence of key defenders Dhiraj Meher and Kartik Rao. However, with strong core players like Jayesh Suttar, they remain a formidable opponent.
• KSA Juniors and ROQS-DFA: These teams are expected to field youthful yet experienced players, aiming to make a significant impact.

Underdogs:

• Newly Promoted Teams: Shastri Nagar FC, Don Bosco Academy, and South Mumbai United FC, all promoted from the 1st division, are expected to continue their momentum and make a mark on the big stage this season.
• Regal Sports: The only 1st division team to reach the Independence Cup 2024 semifinals, Regal Sports has already built momentum and is a team to watch in the Super League

As the Mumbai Super League kicks off, the stage is set for a thrilling season, with teams vying for glory and promotion.

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