Chennaiyin FC up against NorthEast United FC in penultimate encounter

Goa, February 18, 2021: Chennaiyin FC square up against NorthEast United FC in the former’s penultimate game of the ongoing Indian Super League season, at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim on Thursday night.

CFC are unfortunately out of the running for the play-off places, currently on 18 points after as many games. Even if Csaba Laszlo’s team win their remaining two games, they will end the league stage on 24 points, while FC Goa in fourth place are already on 27 points with two of their games remaining. Chennaiyin however can turn party spoilers for NorthEast United, who are one point behind Goa with two of their games to go. 

In the reverse fixture in December, CFC were held to a goalless draw by the Highlanders. Since then, the going has been tough for the two-time ISL champions with injuries and unfavorable results, while Khalid Jamil’s NEUFC are firmly in the mix to push for a top-four spot.

Chennaiyin however did show glimpses of their best form in the 2-2 draw against FC Goa last week. Goals from Jakub Sylvestr and Lallianzuala Chhangte surely would’ve come as a welcome change for CFC fans, who have had to endure a frustrating season. Laszlo & Co. will be hoping to end the campaign on a high while also hoping to scupper the chances of their opponents, while remaining competitive.

After the draw against FC Goa, CFC are winless in seven games, their last victory coming against Odisha FC in mid-January. They will be desperate to retain their pride and finish as high on the table as possible, with their final game against lowly Kerala Blasters FC on February 21 to follow.

Jamil’s men on the other hand come into the clash in rich vein of form, having beaten Odisha FC comprehensively in their previous game. Their attacking trio of Luis Machado, Federico Gallego and Deshorn Brown have particularly shone in recent times, with their Indian contingent also firing. Eli Sabia and Enes Sipovic will have to be at their very best to keep out that triumvirate in what promises to be an exciting contest.

In terms of team news, Laszlo hinted that youngsters and other players who haven’t had as much game time this season may get a look in. The Hungarian manager is also hopeful of Indian midfielder Anirudh Thapa featuring for at least one half against NEUFC. 

“The mood within the camp is good despite the run of undesirable results. It is important that the team showed the desire against Goa; and I am sure we will continue that against NorthEast. It is not just about qualifying for the play-offs it is also about being a team until the very end. To not give up on our pride,” Laszlo said in his pre-match press briefing.

Indian Super League 2020-21:

Chennaiyin FC v NorthEast United FC

Thursday February 18, 2021

GMC Stadium, Bambolim

Kick-Off: 7:30 PM

Live on TV: Star Sports Network

Live on Digital: Disney+ Hotstar and Jio TV