Chennaiyin FC is in real danger of getting ousted from the top four finishes. The Marina Manchans will be facing resurgent the Northeast United FC at the Marina Arena. The two sides had dramatic game in the first leg and we should expect lot of drama in this one too. The two coaches had heated moments during the game. Northeast Manager Cesar Farias’ side was victorious on the day and Chennaiyin FC would be eager to get their revenge.
Team News & Tactical Brief
Chennaiyin FC
On paper Chennaiyin FC is one of the best sides in the Indian Super League. They have showed their brilliance in lot of matches but they looked completely reckless at times. Despite boasting one of the best offensive lines Chennaiyin FC havena t won enough matches to help them stay in top four of the league. The defense has been leaking goals and that has added pressure on the forward line.
Chennaiyin FC, known to play physical game but that hasna t helped them lot, have conceded most number of penalties in the league so far. They have been on the receiving end of the referee, getting most number of yellow and red cards.
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Teams started to expose Chennaiyin’s defense loopholes now. The opponent prefers to sit back, suck up the pressure and then play on counter against Chennaiyin FC. The number of goals scored in last 20 minutes of the game against them is clear indication that Chennaiyin defense must not lose their concentration throughout the game.
The Columbian pocket size dynamite Mendoza hasna t been firing for last few games. He will be man to watch against northeast United. His pace and trickery should worry defense line which has likes of Bikey and Lopez.
Brazilian superstar Elano hasna t had best season like last year. He has been not at his best to provide goals for the team like last season. Rafeal Augusto has been the best player for Chennaiyin FC this season. The defense midfielder has been crucial member of the team this year. His ability to break the attack has been important for the club.
The defense will be crucial for Marco Materazzi’s side going into the match. If his defense can hold Velez and Simao then half their job would be done.
Probable Starting XI: Karanjit, Wadoo, Mendy, Potenza, Das, Augusto, Thoi, Elano, Bruno, Mendoza, Jayesh.
Northeast United FC
The visitors are high on confidence after registering first away victory after while, at Athletico de Kolkata. The Highlanders have looked decent in last few games. They already have registered a victory over Chennaiyin FC and would love to do double. It would be a difficult game for them, but given how sloppy Chennaiyin FC have been in defense they should fancy their chances.
The combination of Nico Velez and Simao Sabrosa would be crucial for the Northeast side going up font. Both are scoring goals and have looked threatening. If they get enough support from other players in midfield then it could help Northeast in a big way.
After addition of Lopez and Bikey the defense has looked solid for the highlanders. Cameroonian international Bikey has been impressive for them. The burly defender has stood up rock solid and his presence would be a major boost for the team. He will have a tough task on his hand against Mendoza and Elano.
Indian players like Hanghal and Sanju Pradhan have been impressive for the highlanders. Both have contributed decently in for the team and would be looking to continue their form.
Probable Starting XI: Rehenesh, Raju, Hengbart, Lopez, Reagan, Bikey, Hanghal, Simao, Sanju, Velez, Dadzie.
Prediction
Chennaiyin FC 3 a 2 NorthEast United FC
Chennaiyin FC is in real danger and that would make them play for the win. This game expect to be high scoring, game just like other games in Marina Arena. The home side might sneak in with a victory.