Churchill Brothers made a winning start to their Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 campaign with an impressive 2-1 victory over Mumbai City FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao, Goa, on Sunday.
Goals from Gaurav Bora and Sebastián Gutiérrez helped the Red Machines secure all three points, while Sergio Llamas scored a late consolation goal for Mumbai City.
The result marked a memorable return to India’s top-flight football competition for Churchill Brothers, who entered the league after acquiring Jamshedpur FC’s league rights.
For Mumbai City, however, the defeat was a disappointing beginning to life under new head coach Manolo Márquez.
Gaurav Bora Breaks Deadlock in Second Half
After a goalless opening half, Churchill Brothers found the breakthrough in the 57th minute through defender Gaurav Bora.
The experienced player, who previously represented NorthEast United and Mohammedan Sporting in the ISL, rose to the occasion with a well-taken header to give the home side a crucial advantage.
The goal provided Churchill Brothers with the momentum they needed as Mumbai City searched for a way back into the contest.
Despite the visitors’ efforts, Churchill Brothers maintained their lead and eventually strengthened their position during the closing stages.
Gutiérrez Doubles Lead Before Mumbai City’s Late Response
With just four minutes remaining in regulation time, Sebastián Gutiérrez delivered what proved to be the decisive goal.
The attacker showed composure to round Mumbai City goalkeeper T. P. Rehenesh before finding the net, putting Churchill Brothers 2-0 ahead.
Mumbai City refused to surrender and mounted a late attacking push.
Summer signing Sergio Llamas gave the visitors a glimmer of hope by scoring in stoppage time, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
However, the goal arrived too late to change the outcome, allowing Churchill Brothers to celebrate a valuable opening victory in front of their home supporters.
Disappointing Start for Manolo Márquez
The defeat was particularly frustrating for Mumbai City head coach Manolo Márquez, who returned to a familiar venue where he had previously managed FC Goa.
While his side showed determination in the closing moments, the late response was not enough to prevent an opening-match setback.
Churchill Brothers, meanwhile, will look to build on their winning start when they welcome East Bengal to the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao next week.
Mumbai City will aim to register their first victory of the season when they travel to New Delhi to face Punjab FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on October 19.
