Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC face-off in search of first win of campaign
Both sides are yet to win a game in their respective campaigns this season.
Both Bengaluru FC and Chennaiyin FC are yet to register their first win and put an end to an otherwise disappointing start to the season. However, Bengaluru FC have been on the brighter side of things, having drawn all of their games against arguably the strongest of teams in the league. Meanwhile, Chennaiyin FC sit at the bottom of the table with just one point, after having lost two of the three games they have played.
If there is one department both teams clearly need to improve, it is their attack. Bengaluru FC have managed to score just once in three games and haven’t been very impressive in the final third since the start of the season. Chennaiyin FC have now failed to score for the sixth consecutive game in the ISL and would look to end the goal-drought against the Blues.
[KH_ADWORDS type="3" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS]The Stakes
Bengaluru FC
A win is what’s required for both teams, as they would look to go into the international break on a high. Bengaluru FC have a point to prove now that they return to their home and will look to put their attacking woes behind them. After a display of defensive brilliance against Jamshedpur FC, Cuadrat’s men would go all guns blazing against an out-of-form Chennaiyin FC, to register their first win of the campaign.
Chennaiyin FC
Chennaiyin FC are facing issues of the same sort. They have dominated major parts of games, but failed to convert their chances into goals. John Gregory, who is keen on the side winning irrespective of the scoreline, would certainly look to field his strongest XI against a very resilient Bengaluru FC side.
Team News
Bengaluru FC
Albert Serran has been ruled out of the game with a muscle problem. Erik Paartalu is also a doubt for the game against Chennaiyin FC.
Chennaiyin FC
John Gregory has a full strength squad at his disposal. Germanpreet Singh is likely to feature after returning to the fold.
Head-To-Head
Encounters between both sides have been some of the most competitive in the league and have never resulted in a draw. Chennaiyin FC hold the edge over Bengaluru FC, having beaten them thrice over five meetings, including a ISL final clash.
However, Chennaiyin FC are the only side to have beaten Bengaluru FC twice at their home ground and would look to establish their dominance yet again. Bengaluru FC have often managed to settle scores and will surely put up a fight to bridge the gap.
Man to Watch
Raphael Augusto (Bengaluru FC)
After a brilliant start to the season, the Brazilian has established himself as a favourite among his teammates and the fans. Augusto has been pivotal to the side’s build-up play this campaign and has managed to create some great link-ups with the attack. Now that he is on the other side of the blue divide, Chennaiyin would definitely keep an eye on him.
Rafael Crivellaro (Chennaiyin FC)
Rafael has been fantastic for Chennaiyin FC in midfield and poses a constant threat with his sharp and accurate passes. He could be the answer to Chennaiyin’s goalscoring woes and is certainly a threat that Bengaluru FC have to deal with.
Probable Lineups
Bengaluru FC
Sandhu (GK); Nishu, Juanan, Bheke, Ashique; Harmanjot, Dimas, Augusto; Udanta, Chhetri (C), Onwu.
Chennaiyin FC
Kaith (GK); Tondonba, Edwin, Sabia, Goian; Thapa, Ganesh; Dragos, Crivellaro, Chhangte; Schembri.
[KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News | Article Continues Below"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS]Did You Know?
- Chennaiyin FC have not scored a league goal since February 9 this year. The last time they scored a goal in the ISL was during a 2-1 win against Bengaluru FC last season.
- Raphael Augusto, who currently plays for Bengaluru FC, was on the scoresheet for Chennaiyin FC, when the two teams faced each other in the final of the 2017-18 edition of the ISL. His goal made the difference as Chennaiyin FC beat Bengaluru FC 3-2 on the night.
- Sunil Chhetri has scored four goals against Chennaiyin FC in the five games he has played against them for Bengaluru FC. He has failed to score on just one occasion.
Broadcast
The match will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network from 7:30 PM IST on Sunday. It will also be streamed on Hotstar and Jio TV.
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