Preview: Chennaiyin FC look to build momentum against NorthEast United

This will be the 15th meeting between the two teams.

The eighth edition of the Indian Super League (ISL) is up and running and NorthEast United will go up against an in-form Chennaiyin FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao on November 29. This fixture always promises to be a thrilling encounter with end-to-end action, a lot of goals and drama.

The Stakes

NorthEast United

The Highlanders come into this game on the back of a goalless draw against Kerala Blasters last week. They find themselves in ninth on the table, with just one point to their name in two matches.

NorthEast United looked disjointed in the attacking third against the Blasters and therefore couldn’t create many chances. Khalid Jamil will want his boys to get their maiden victory of the 2021-22 season against their favourite opponents.

Chennaiyin FC

The Marina Machans, on the other hand, had a dream start to their campaign as they got the better of Hyderabad FC in their opening match.

The two-time champions were solid at the back and converted an important spot-kick to register all three points against the Nizams. Bozidar Bandovic will hope to build upon their season's opening victory going forward.

Team News

The Highlanders will miss out the services of midfield duo Imran Khan and Emanuel Lalchhanchhuaha. Imran will start training from next week, but Emanuel is expected out for a longer period.

However, the good news is that Uruguayan maestro Federico Gallego is 100% fit for the next match and will be available for selection.

For Chennaiyin, Raphael Crivellaro will be out of action for at least four weeks due to a muscle injury, the club has confirmed.

Head-to-Head 

The Highlanders have played 14 thrilling encounters against the Marina Machans. NorthEast United boast a better head-to-head record with six wins, three losses and five draws. However, Chennaiyin have only managed to win thrice. 

Probable Lineups

NorthEast United (4-3-3): Subhasish (GK), Gurjinder, Hernan, Irshad, Lakra, Camara, Pragyan, Gallego, Danmawia, Mathias, VP Suhair.

Chennaiyin FC (4-1-4-1): Vishal (GK), Reagan, Damjanovic, Salam Ranjan, Narayan, Ariel, Chhangte, Koman, Thapa, Murzaev, Rahim.

Man to Watch 

Khassa Camara (NorthEast United)

The Mauritanian international has given a good account of himself in the last two matches. He has been robust defensively and has also made important contributions in the attacking third.

His physicality and ability to keep things simple is what sets him apart in the middle of the park. Camara will have the responsibility to break down opposition play and link-up attacking moves for his side against Chennaiyin FC.

Vladimir Koman (Chennaiyin FC)

The Hungarian midfielder was the best player for his side in their season opener. He was brilliant in midfield, as he pulled the strings alongside Anirudh Thapa. Koman also scored the all-important spot-kick for his side, which helped them kick-start their campaign in style.

He won all his ground duels, made important defensive contributions and maintained a good passing accuracy. Koman will have a similar role to play against NorthEast United in their next match.

Did You Know?

• The fixture between NorthEast United and Chennaiyin FC maintains a massive average of 3.28 goals per match.

• NorthEast United have scored 25 goals and have conceded 21 against Chennaiyin.

• Out of their last four encounters, three have ended in a draw and one has gone in the favour of Chennaiyin FC.

Telecast

The match will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network, Hotstar and Jio TV. Kick-off is at 7:30 pm on November 29, and the game will be held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao.

For more football updates, follow Khel Now on Twitter, Instagram and join our community on Telegram.