Chennaiyin FC played out a goalless draw against Mohammedan SC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Tuesday. Despite dominating large parts of the game and creating better opportunities, they were unable to secure a win. The Marina Machans, under coach Clifford Rayes Miranda, displayed attacking prowess but fell short in converting chances in front of their home crowd.
In the Indian Super League (ISL) match, Chennaiyin’s Klusner Pereira earned his first start, while Maheson Singh and Imran Khan returned to the starting lineup. The team, with Irfan Yadwad partnering Daniel Chima Chukwu upfront, started energetically, aiming to capitalize on their previous win.
Chennaiyin began the game on the offensive, with Klusner providing an early threat with a dangerous cross that led to a corner. Eduardo Kau’s header from a set-piece narrowly missed the target. Mohammad Nawaz of Mohammedan SC made a crucial save in the 29th minute, denying Hira Mondal’s attempt with a brilliant fingertip save to maintain the deadlock.
As the match progressed, Chennaiyin faced a setback as Klusner had to be substituted due to injury. Mandar Rao Dessai replaced him, but Chennaiyin struggled to convert their chances. Despite their attacking efforts, the team failed to break the deadlock in a closely contested first half.
In the second half, Chennaiyin continued their attacking approach, focusing on wing play. Laldinliana’s crosses and Imran’s deliveries kept the pressure on Mohammedan’s defense. However, both teams were unable to find the back of the net, with Chima’s acrobatic attempt missing the mark and appeals for a penalty being dismissed.
Despite late pressure from Chennaiyin, including a missed opportunity by Chima, the match ended in a stalemate. Chennaiyin FC will now prepare to face Jamshedpur FC on April 25 in their upcoming fixture.
