AFC Cup Preview: Chennaiyin FC look for first three points against Manang Marshyangdi

The Marina Machans drew 0-0 in their first continental outing against fellow Indian side Minerva Punjab.

Chennaiyin FC will be hosting Nepal's Manang Marshyangdi in their second AFC Cup group stage game at The Arena in Ahmedabad. Chennaiyin drew their first game against Minerva Punjab, while the Nepali outfit lost to Dhaka Abahani 1-0.

The coaches of both the sides spoke to the media before the game:

Coach’s Corner

John Gregory (Chennaiyin FC)

John Gregory gave his thoughts about the game by saying, “We are disappointed with the result (Super Cup final defeat) over the weekend, but now this is the AFC Cup, where we represent our city, our country. So, we are pumped up.”

When asked what has changed in the team after the ISL season he said, “The AFC Cup has inspired us, motivated us and we hope to do well. Last year Bengaluru FC did a great job. We hope to replicate the same, or even better.”

When asked about the morale of the team after having Jerry Lalrinzuala and Dhanpal Ganesh back Gregory said, “Jerry has been a good lad, a good professional who has worked very hard on his fitness and in his first game after injury he played full 90 minutes.”

He further added, “Dhanpal was an instrumental figure in last season’s title triumph and to have him back is really a good sign for us.”

Chirring Gurung (Manang Marshyangdi)

Gurung gave his views about the game by saying, “We are here to win and we’ll make sure we take three points from here. The motivation is high among the players. We will give our best.”

When asked about the weaknesses of Chennaiyin he said, “I’m well aware of their weakness, but I won’t say here but I know the weakness.”

When asked about his team's approach he quipped, “We’re going to take everyone seriously. They have a good team and our players are ready for it.”

ALSO READ

• AIFF League Committee refers matter of Super Cup revolt to Desciplinary Committee

• Indian Player Ratings: Md. Nawaz and Brandon Fernandes key figures as Goa clinch Super Cup

• The Game of Thrones: Mohun Bagan and the tragedy of incompetence

Team News

Chennaiyin FC

The ISL side don't have any injury concerns in their squad.

Manang Marshyangdi

Manang also have their full squad for the clash.

Probable Lineups

Chennaiyin FC

Karanjit, Renthelei, Sabia, Mailson, Jerry, Thoi, Augusto, Herd, Thapa Vineeth, Lalpekhlua.

Manang Marshyangdi

Bishal, Kamal, Asif, Tamang, Maharjan, Bista, Rai, Gurung, Sujal, Somide, Oladipo.

Did You Know?

• Muhammed Asif of Manang Marshyagandi Club is the first Indian to represent an overseas club in the AFC Cup group stage.
• Manang Marshyangdi are the first team from Nepal to qualify for the group stage of the AFC Cup.

[KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS]

Broadcast

The game is scheduled to kickoff at 7:30 PM IST at The Arena, but there is no broadcast scheduled in India.