Mumbay FC Set for National Debut: Maharashtra’s Champions Kick Off I-League 3 Campaign

by FC April 21, 2026

The wait is finally over for Mumbay FC. After dominating the state League and etching their name into the history books of Maharashtra football, Mumbay FC is ready to take the “Amchi Mumbay” spirit to the national stage.

The club’s highly anticipated I-League 3 campaign is set to start on April 28th in Imphal, Manipur.

Mumbay FC’s journey to the national tier wasn’t just a stroke of luck—it was earned through an unbeaten run. The club was crowned the inaugural champions of the Maharashtra State Club League Championship (MSMFL), a tournament designed by the WIFA to create a clear pathway for district teams to reach the national divisions.

By bringing the “best of the best” from every district together, the MSMFL tested Mumbay FC’s depth. Their clinical performance and tactical superiority during that campaign made massive statement in their debut season.

The Group of Death:

Placed in Group B, Mumbay FC faces a formidable challenge in the hills of Manipur. They are pitted against a mix of historic giants and rising powerhouses:

TRAU FC (Host & Former I-League side)
Zinc FA – Rajasthan
Club De Salgaocar – Goa
Samaleshwari SC – Odisha

Playing the hosts, TRAU FC, in their opening fixture at the SAI Turf Ground will be a true “litmus test” for the Mumbai side.

The team began their intensive pre-season on March 16th, leaving no stone unturned in their preparation for the high-altitude and high-intensity demands of the I-League 3.

Notably, the club made a decision during the second edition of the MSMFL, fielding their Reserve Team instead of the senior squad. Explaining the move, Mumbay FC’s Technical Director, Zoheb, highlighted a “safety-first” approach aimed at long-term success.

“Our participation in the state league this year was for the Reserve team. Because the ground was not in the best of its condition, a lot of injuries could possibly happen. We wanted to give exposure and game time to our U-19 players,” stated Zoheb.

This calculated move ensured that the senior core remained fresh, injury-free, and hyper-focused on the primary objective: Promotion.

As the squad flew to Imphal, the dreams of Mumbai football fans fly with them. Can the champions of Maharashtra become the new face of Indian football’s third tier?

Mumbay FC begins their campaign on April 28th against TRAU FC. Stay tuned to Football Counter for exclusive updates, match reports, and behind-the-scenes coverage of Mumbay FC’s debut National test!

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