Hyderabad FC faces Chennaiyin FC on Friday in another major clash between Indian Super League (ISL) sides in the Durand Cup group stages. While the Nawabs breezed their way to winning their opening game, Chennaiyin were held to a frustrating draw at Imphal.
The Marina Machans need a win to get their Durand Cup campaign going. But the defending ISL playoffs champions aren’t one to back down that easily. Manolo Marquez’s men are flying high on confidence. Another win here can help them take a major step into the knockout stages. Something has got to give in what is expected to be a thrilling game between two ISL heavyweights.
RECENT FORM
Hyderabad FC – The Nawabs got their Durand Cup underway with a relatively comfortable 2-0 win over TRAU FC. But now they’ll face a bigger challenge in the form of an unpredictable Chennaiyin FC side. Getting a win over a fellow ISL side can always bring a jolly feeling for Manolo Marquez’s side. While a draw or loss wouldn’t mean the end of the world, they are unlikely to take it easy.
Hyderabad FC wants to continue their domination from last season and also lift the Durand Cup title. That involves dominating every team they face and if a win can dent Chennaiyin’s momentum, it’s only better for Hyderabad FC. A win can help them pin down that top position and become favorites to reach the knockout stage.
Chennaiyin FC – Thomas Brdaric’s career as Chennaiyin FC manager went off on a frustrating start. The Marina Machans have held to a draw thanks to a last-gasp equalizer from Army Red in the opening game. Chennaiyin FC was trailing for a long period before finding their vigor towards the end. They’ll hope to bring that momentum to start the game strongly against Hyderabad FC and push them back from the get-go.
Brdaric is still looking for his first official win as a Chennaiyin FC manager and will want to get it on Friday. A loss and draw can be more demoralizing for the group and dent their chances of qualifying for the knockouts. If they’re unable to make the knockouts against the likes of NEROCA FC, TRAU, and Army Red, it could cause embarrassment. So there is quite a lot riding on this match for Chennaiyin FC. A win can reinvigorate their hunger to win the Durand Cup.
TEAM NEWS
Hyderabad FC are only missing goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh, as he’s recovering from surgery. They should have a fully-fit squad available apart from that.
Meanwhile, Chennaiyin FC could miss new signing Vincy Barretto as he is recovering from injury trouble. They have a fully fit squad apart from that.
HEAD TO HEAD RECORD
Total Matches Played – 6
Hyderabad FC Wins – 2
Chennaiyin FC Wins – 3
Matches Ended in a Draw – 1
These two teams have met six times so far in the ISL. Chennaiyin FC have been victorious on three occasions, wheareas Hyderabad FC has won the fixture twice. While their most recent encounter ended in a 1-1 draw.
PROBABLE STARTING LINEUPS
IFTWC’s MATCH PREDICTIONS
Hyderabad FC will aim to continue their winning run, while Chennaiyin FC will look to put in an improved performance following their 2-2 draw over the Army Red. Fans can be assured that they will have an interesting game to watch, with both teams looking to come out all guns blazing. IFTWC predicts a 1-1 draw in the game between Hyderabad FC and Chennaiyin FC.
MATCH DETAILS AND TELECAST NEWS
Fixture: Hyderabad FC and Chennaiyin FC (Group C)
Venue: Khuman Lampak Stadium, Imphal
Date and Kickoff Time: 26th August from 3 PM onwards
Streaming Platform: Voot App/Website and Jio TV
Telecast Channel: Sports 18 1 SD & HD as well as Sports 18 Khel (Hindi commentary)
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