Chennaiyin FC face Jamshedpur FC in a very important encounter for both the sides. The two teams which are working hard to sneak into the playoffs clash in what seems like a must win game. Both teams will expect nothing less than 3 points as they need to climb up the league table.
Chennaiyin FC are languishing in the lower half of the table at the 8th place with just 17 points in 16 matches. They are winless for five straight games and will hope to break that streak today. New signing Manuel Lanzarote will be expected to inspire the team from midfield. Chennaiyin FC have been undone by lacklustre finishing, scoring just 11 goals in the entire season which is the least by any team. They drew 0-0 against Bengaluru in a game where Chennaiyin failed to convert their chances. Head coach Czaba Laszlo will be keen to overturn this goal deficit and grab the three points.
Meanwhile Jamshedpur FC are just above Chennaiyin in the points table in 7th position with 18 points in 16 matches. It has been a mixed bag of a season for the team so far. Having contained the likes of Mumbai and ATKMB early on, now that side is struggling to get points on the board. They are also coming back from a defeat against SC East Bengal. Owen Coyle’s side will look to bounce back and get the crucial 3 points against Chennai to be in contention for the playoffs.
Team news :
Chennaiyin FC will miss the services of left back Jerry Lalrinzuala due to suspension. Lalchuanmawia Fanai is expected to start in his position.
Jamshedpur FC has a complete squad for selection.
Indian players to watch out :
Lalianzuala Chhangte has shown glimpses of his class this season, but has been let down by his finishing. Nonetheless we can expect many chances to be created by the youngster with his pace.
Rahim Ali has made it to the starting eleven after some good performances from the bench. The pace and energy of the 20 year old striker would be useful for the team.
Mobashir Rahman has been one of the finds for Jamshedpur this season. The midfielder’s dynamic playmaking and positioning has clicked many a time for the team.
Narender Gahlot has paved his way into the starting lineup in the past few matches. Though playing as a left back, he adds to the solidity of the backline. He will also be aiming to push for a permanent place in the national team.
Key foreign players :
Chennaiyin FC’s new signing Manuel Lanzarote needs no introduction. His ability to create chances and make cutting passes will be crucial for Chennai to get the goals which they are lacking. Midfielder Memo has put in a good shift for the team, be it midfield or defence. The experienced Brazilian could be expected to be a key player for Chennaiyin.
Nerijus Valskis is in the contention for the golden boot again this season (4th position) with 8 goals. The Lithuanian had scored in the first match against his former side Chennaiyin. He will be the main target man for Jamshedpur.
Eze will be a boulder for the strikers to go past. The partnership of Eze and Hartley will be crucial in set pieces and is expected to play a vital role given that Chennai will be raring to score goals.
Both the teams will be going all out for the victory and we can expect some goals. Every match from now will be crucial for both the sides and their play will reflect that.
Possible lineups :
Chennaiyin FC :
Vishal Kaith (GK), Reagan Singh, Eli Sabiá, Enes Sipović, Lalchuanmawia Fanai, Anirudh Thapa, Memo, Rahim Ali, Manuel Lanzarote, Lalianzuala Chhangte, Isma
Jamshedpur FC :
Rehenesh TP (GK), Laldinliana Renthlei, Stephen Eze, Peter Hartley, Narender Gahlot, Semilen Doungel, Mobashir Rahman, Alex Monteiro, Nicholas Fitzgerald, Farukh Choudary, Nerijus Valskis
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