Chennaiyin FC Eyes Home Advantage in ISL Opener

Chennaiyin FC Eyes Home Advantage in ISL Opener

Chennaiyin FC Aims for Home Advantage in Indian Super League

As the Indian Super League (ISL) season kicks off, Chennaiyin FC head coach Owen Coyle has emphasized the importance of home support for his team. With seven of their first 10 matches scheduled away from home, CFC is eager to make a strong impression in front of their passionate fans.

“The scheduling is what it is. We prepare for the games and we know we can win. We are at home now, one of the few games here in the first 10 for us,” Coyle said. “We want to make sure we do our very best here.”

Last season, Chennaiyin had a difficult start but rallied to qualify for the playoffs. Coyle is aiming for a better beginning this time around. “Hopefully, if we are really strong in the second half like last year, we will be in a really good position. We have to also gather points away from home to capitalize on those run of home games when they come about.”

Coyle also stressed the importance of building a team that can “do justice” to its loyal fans. “I want to provide a team the fans enjoy watching, and that is (when we) win/lose/draw. Hopefully, we can give them a team that’s representative of them.”

Chennaiyin’s home opener against Mohammedan SC on Tuesday will be a crucial test. The team will be looking to establish a winning rhythm and create a positive atmosphere for the rest of the season.

Chennaiyin FC Revamps Squad with 13 New Faces, Aims for ISL Glory

Chennaiyin FC Revamps Squad with 13 New Faces, Aims for ISL Glory

Chennaiyin FC (CFC), the two-time Indian Super League champion, has undergone a significant squad overhaul this season. The team boasts 13 new faces, including several promising young domestic players. Twelve players have departed the club for various reasons.

Head coach Owen Coyle, known for his willingness to embrace challenges, is confident in his team’s abilities. In his previous two seasons with CFC, he guided the team to the playoffs and even the final in 2019-20. This time, Coyle believes his squad has the depth and talent to make a strong run.

“We will probably get two players for every position (this time) and we didn’t have that last year, certainly to the strength and depth of the new season. But I think this year we know we have players who can be game-changers. So, it gives us certainly far more competition for places which really is important,” Coyle said at a press conference.

Coyle expressed his satisfaction with the players’ desire to improve, which he sees as a positive sign for the club’s performance and potential to win the tournament.

“We have players who really want to improve, both young and experienced, who want to put their hands up. For example, the experienced Mandar Rao Dessai has a point to prove. He has been a champion. He wants to show his quality again having played for East Bengal last year,” Coyle said.

“So, everybody has got something to play for, and that is what I need. Players who are motivated and hungry, not feeling happy to play games,” the 58-year-old Scot added.

Chennaiyin will kick off its new season on September 14 against Odisha in Bhubaneswar. The players are aware of the competition within the squad and are eager to prove their worth.

Ankit Mukherjee's Redemption: Owen Coyle's Transformative Power

Ankit Mukherjee’s Redemption: Owen Coyle’s Transformative Power

Ankit Mukherjee’s recent goalscoring exploits for Chennaiyin FC have drawn comparisons to Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri. While Mukherjee’s tally of two goals this season may pale in comparison to Chhetri’s 61 ISL goals, his impact on Chennaiyin’s resurgence has been undeniable.

Mukherjee’s journey to redemption is a testament to the transformative power of Owen Coyle. After being barred from training with East Bengal for disciplinary issues, Mukherjee found a lifeline at Chennaiyin FC. Under Coyle’s guidance, Mukherjee has flourished, playing in more games this season than ever before.

Coyle’s belief in Mukherjee has paid dividends. The defender’s goals against NorthEast United helped Chennaiyin FC secure a crucial victory, sealing their place in the ISL playoffs. Mukherjee’s performance was particularly poignant, as he played despite receiving news of his father’s critical illness.

Coyle’s ability to revive the careers of misfit players is well-documented. At Jamshedpur FC, he revitalized Pronay Halder and improved several other Indian players. Coyle’s understanding of Indian players and his unwavering belief in their potential sets him apart from many foreign coaches in the ISL.

With Alexander Stewart as his assistant, Coyle has created a positive and supportive environment at Chennaiyin FC. Players are encouraged to believe in themselves and push beyond their limits. Coyle’s vast experience and tactical acumen have enabled Chennaiyin FC to overcome adversity and achieve success.

While Coyle’s future at Chennaiyin FC remains uncertain, his impact on the club has been profound. He has instilled a winning mentality and helped several players rediscover their form. Coyle’s ability to get teams to punch above their weight is a testament to his coaching prowess.

Chennaiyin FC, Hyderabad FC Face Off in Crucial ISL Clash

Chennaiyin FC, Hyderabad FC Face Off in Crucial ISL Clash

Chennaiyin FC and Hyderabad FC, languishing at the bottom of the Indian Super League standings, face off in a crucial encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai on Saturday. With just six matches remaining in the regular season, both teams are desperate for a victory to boost their playoff hopes.

Chennaiyin, currently 11th with 20 points from 18 games, has a slight edge over Hyderabad, who are 12th with 17 points. A win for Owen Coyle’s men would take them to 21 points and within touching distance of the sixth spot.

Coyle, however, is wary of the threat posed by Hyderabad, despite their winless record this season. “This is the most dangerous game of the season,” he said. “Hyderabad is not going to hand us anything. They’ve got nothing to lose and they’ll play with that freedom.”

Chennaiyin has struggled for goals this season, scoring just 18 in 18 matches. Coyle acknowledges the need for improvement in front of goal. “Yes, we can be far more clinical,” he said. “I think we missed more big chances than many teams in the league. But the good thing is that we are creating chances. I’d be more worried if we were not creating chances.”

Hyderabad, on the other hand, has a daunting task ahead of them. They have yet to win a game this season and are without the services of suspended skipper Joao Victor and Mark Zothanpuia. However, young coach Thangboi Singto remains optimistic.

“We have been working hard and we are confident that we can get a result in Chennai,” he said. “We know it will be difficult, but we are up for the challenge.”

The match promises to be a tense and exciting affair, with both teams desperate for a victory. Chennaiyin will be looking to capitalize on their home advantage and improve their goal-scoring record, while Hyderabad will be hoping to break their winless streak and boost their playoff hopes.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart