Goa: Chennaiyin FC would be determined to bounce back as they host Jamshedpur FC at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim on Thursday as both teams are struck in the mid-table and would likely win to keep their hopes for the top four alive.
Chennaiyin had one of the poor seasons this year. The two-time Champions had many issues within the team as they missed out on their captain Rafael Crivellaro in the middle of the season due to injury. Lallinzuala Chhangte has been the shadow of last season, even they lack a proper goalscorer.
But with Manuel Lanzarote joining the side they might feel a bit more confident from what they have been. Coach Csaba Laszlo felt that the team have been unlucky to draw against Bengaluru FC in their last match.
“We still hope and we don’t give up our target of being in the top four. The possibility is there. And tomorrow’s game will not only be important for Jamshedpur but the other teams as well,” said coach Laszlo.
He further added, “We know we are capable of winning games, but we need to use our chances better. Even in the offensive part, we need more consistency. To miss so many chances after creating them isn’t normal. But we trust our players, and we keep going and try to play our football.”
On the other hand, Owen Coyle to face his former aide. The side which gave him recognition in Indian football since last season. But things are now different for the English coach as he has been focused with Jamshedpur who are one spot above Chennaiyin on the table.
“They’re a tough team,” said Coyle. He further added, “They’ve certainly created a lot of chances, but they haven’t been as clinical as what they could be, but we know they are very tough opponents.”
As Jamshedpur lost their last game against SC East Bengal, this match would be a do or die situation and by trying to win it just to keep their top-four hopes alive.
