India, Feb. 19 -- Mumbai City FC have not played a competitive match since December 4. It has been an anxious few months for the Indian Super League (ISL) as the All India Football Federation (AIFF) struggled to get it underway. Within that delay though, head coach Petr Kratky found the time to "reset and reflect."

"I reviewed the previous phase, analysed performances and worked on planning," he told HT. "It was also important for me to recharge."

Now the former champions and winners of the double in 2020-21 are set to play their first match of the season on Thursday, at the Andheri Sports Complex, against Chennaiyin FC.

"At the end of the day, we all love football," said Kratky. "Training is great but matches are what we work for. The...