Odisha FC travel to face revitalized Chennaiyin FC

Both sides have won only one game in their respective league campaigns till now.

The fortunes of Chennaiyin FC seem to have changed and the Marina Machans would look to capitalize on their first victory, with one more win against Odisha FC on Thursday.

Chennaiyin FC host the league's newcomers in a must-win game for both teams, as they look to climb up the table after having won just one game in five matches. Odisha FC have the edge over the Marina Machans, as they are separated by just one point. Chennaiyin FC scripted a dramatic win over Hyderabad FC and are high on confidence, as they take on an equally determined Odisha side, who held league leaders ATK to a goalless draw in their previous game.

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The Stakes

Chennaiyin FC

Chennaiyin FC had all their stars aligned, as they put an end to their gloomy start to the season and grabbed their first win of this season after beating Hyderabad, in a game that witnessed three stoppage time goals.

The clash against Odisha FC would be a real test for John Gregory and his men, who look to make a comeback in the league after having been out of contention for a long period. Chennaiyin’s start to the campaign has been marred by a string of disappointing results and they would look to draw confidence from the last game’s performance.

Odisha FC

Odisha FC are currently looking to get back to winning ways, after consecutive goalless draws against Kerala Blasters and ATK. Despite putting up some brilliant performances, the side haven’t managed to score a single goal after putting four past Mumbai City in their only win this season. Coach Josep Gombou has been pleased by their performances, yet is miffed that the team haven’t got the results they deserved. He would surely look to seal three points against Chennaiyin FC and restore momentum in the camp.

Team News

Chennaiyin FC

Chennaiyin currently have no injuries concerns, as they go into the clash with a fully fit squad.

Odisha FC

Odisha FC too, have a full squad to choose from and have no players out due to injuries.

Head To Head

This is the first time Chennaiyin FC will be facing Odisha FC. However, the Marina Machans have previously faced the erstwhile Delhi Dynamos 10 times, having won four and drawn five times. Chennaiyin FC have managed to beat them only once.

Man-To-Watch

Rafael Crivellaro

The Brazilian was instrumental in his side's first win of the season and has been the force that drives the team forward. He adds a whole new dimension to the attack and is not shy in front of goal, as he has time and again had his go at the opposition keeper. Despite Gregory having a difference in opinions over him starting, Rafael has been a default name in his side.

Jerry Mawihmingthanga

Odisha FC’s summer signing has proved to be one of their most reliable players among the young Indian contingent they possess. His control and vision in midfield has been brilliant. He has been actively involved in the team’s movement in the final third and has one goal and three assists to his name.

Probable Lineups

Chennaiyin FC

Kaith; Vanspaul, Sabia, Goian, Tondonba; Ganesh, Thapa, Crivellaro; Schembri, Chhangte, Valskis.

Odisha FC

Dorronsoro; Sarangi, Diagne, Gharami, Narayan; Vinit, Tebar; Jerry, Xisco, Nandhakumar; Santana.

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Did You Know?

• Lallianzuala Chhangte faces his former side in Odisha FC. The winger was a part of the team in their previous venture as Delhi Dynamos, before leaving to sign for Chennaiyin FC this summer.
• Chennaiyin have beaten Odisha FC (formerly Delhi Dynamos) just once in their history.
• The goal against Hyderabad FC puts an end to Chennaiyin FC's goalless streak, which had been haunting them from February.

Broadcast

The game will take place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai on Thursday and will be telecast live on Star Sports 2 and Stars Sports 2 HD from 7:30 PM IST. It will also be streamed on Hotstar and Jio TV.