Ahead of tonight’s high-voltage Indian Super League (ISL) between Mumbai City FC and FC Goa, the two sides find themselves involved in an ugly off-field battle. FC Goa have accused Mumbai City FC of spying. As per reports, FC Goa have even lodged a complaint after a Mumbai City club analyst was reportedly spotted filming the team’s training session ahead of the game, set to take place at the Mumbai Football Arena.

A Times of India report later claimed that Mumbai City’s analyst was seen in a hotel opposite FC Goa’s training ground. It has been learnt that the ground offers a clear view of the pitch where FC Goa coach Manolo Marquez was training his side with a special focus on set-piece moves. FC Goa were reportedly training at the Neville D’Souza ground in Bandra West, Mumbai.

Mumbai City and FC Goa are two top contenders currently vying for the ISL Shield this season. With 31 points from 15 games, Mumbai City are placed at the second spot in the ISL standings. Petr Kratky’s men are just a point behind table-toppers Odisha FC.

Mumbai City will head into tonight’s fixture with a three-game winning run under their belt. “We feel very good about that (the consecutive wins) – very important wins (for us). We need to keep going, keep repeating this, and be highly consistent and focused; that’s the important part. Now we will see if we can maintain that focus for the next game,” said Mumbai City head coach Kratky at the pre-match press conference.

Placed at the fifth position, FC have so far collected 28 points from 15 games. With a sensational 12-game unbeaten run, FC Goa seemed favourites to win the ISL shield at one point this season. But three defeats on the trot have thwarted their progress in the ISL standings.

FC Goa conceded losses at home against Mohun Bagan Super Giant and NorthEast United FC. Later, FC Goa were beaten by Kerala Blasters FC by four goals to two in Kochi. FC Goa succeeded in claiming one win in their last five matches.