ISL 2023-24: Chennaiyin FC vs Hyderabad FC: Preview, Predicted lineup, injury news, H2H, telecast details

The pressure will be on Chennaiyin FC to secure three points in their backyard in this ISL clash.

In a battle of the strugglers, Chennaiyin FC are set to welcome bottom-dwellers Hyderabad FC in the upcoming ISL 2023-24 fixture on Saturday, 9 March 2024, at the JLN Stadium in Chennai. The hosts are looking towards making a late challenge for one of the available playoff spots which is mathematically still within reach. 

To reach the playoffs, Chennaiyin FC must put all of their strength towards piling more misery on a wounded Hyderabad FC who have to rely on young Indian players after the departure of foreign and key domestic players owing to financial troubles. The Nizams are yet to win a game this season and will hope to rid themselves of this unfortunate stat which brings embarrassment to a once great club.

A lot is riding on the line, for the hosts in particular, as the kick-off approaches. Here is a look at what to expect:

The Stakes

Chennaiyin FC

Chennaiyin FC can still make it to the playoffs by securing the sixth position in the ISL table which is still attainable. However, they must secure a win to have a chance to make it. The outfit caused a major upset in their last ISL outing by defeating league-toppers Odisha FC, thanks to a late goal. Fans will hope their side to build on the win and find some momentum in the final stages of the league.

Hyderabad FC

Hyderabad FC are playing for pride after suffering a harrowing ISL 2023-24 season, where most key domestic players and foreigners have jumped ship. Suffering from a downfall of their own making, the Nizams must find a way to end the season with at least one win from the whole campaign. The outfit is set to finish the season at the bottom of the league table but could spoil Chennaiyin FC’s attempt at making it into the playoffs with a draw or a win.

Team News

There are no injuries reported from either camp.

Head to Head

Total Matches Played – 9

Chennaiyin FC wins – 4

Hyderabad FC wins – 3

Draws – 2

Predicted Lineup

Chennaiyin FC (4-2-3-1)

Debjit Majumder (GK), Ankit Mukherjee, Ryan Edwards, Bikash Yumnam, Aakash Sangwan, Ayush Adhikari, Connor Shields, Vincy Barretto, Rafael Crivellaro, Ninthoi Meetei, Jordan Murray

Hyderabad FC (4-2-3-1)

Laxmikant Kattimani (GK), Sajad Parray, Mohammed Rafi, Alex Saji, Jeremy Zohminghlua, Mark Zothanpuia, Joao Victor, Abdul Rabeeh, Ramhlunchhunga, Lalchhanhima Sailo, Makan Winkle Chothe

Player to Watch

Connor Shields (Chennaiyin FC)

The deployment of Connor Shields in the midfield has been an inspiring move from Owen Coyle. The Scotsman has been impressive playing in a deeper role. It allows him to influence the game more, thanks to his passing ability and tendency to dribble out of tricky situations. He was crucial to his team in the previous game, where he covered a lot of distance, delivered six crosses and made four tackles.

Joao Victor (Hyderabad FC)

Joao Victor, the captain, is the sole foreigner who remains at Hyderabad FC. He is almost seen as babysitting a group of young Indian players and trying his best to drive them. The Brazilian was a strong performer in the club’s 2-2 draw against NorthEast United where he made 80 touches on the ball, delivered seven long passes and scored the equaliser which earned the team a well-deserved point.

Did you know?

• Draw against the Highlanders snapped a losing streak of 11 games for Hyderabad FC across all competitions.
• Chennaiyin FC have been undefeated in the last three matches against the Nizams (all competitions).
• Hyderabad FC, with eight goals, remain the only team yet to score in double digits in the ISL 2023-24, ahead of this fixture.

Telecast

The Chennaiyin FC vs Hyderabad FC game kicks off at 7:30 PM (IST), at the JLN Stadium on 9 March 2024. The live telecast will be available on the Sports18 Network (Sports18 1/VH1 channel) and the live streaming of the game will be available on the JioCinema app. Viewers from abroad cas use OneFootball to stream the game.

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