Panaji: The Indian Super League (ISL) is back after the international break, with NorthEast United FC set to face Chennaiyin FC tonight at 7:30 pm. The match will take place at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati and is part of game week five of the 2024-25 season. Both teams are eager to gain momentum for the rest of the campaign. In their last match, NorthEast United FC drew 3-3 against FC Goa, conceding a late goal that cost them a win. Meanwhile, Chennaiyin FC played to a 0-0 draw against 10-man Hyderabad FC.
NorthEast United FC has struggled against Chennaiyin FC in recent encounters, winning only once in their last ten matches. However, they have a strong home record, having lost just twice in eight home games against Chennaiyin. Last season, NorthEast secured a convincing 3-0 victory against Chennaiyin at home, which will boost their confidence.
Chennaiyin FC leads the league with an average of 19.3 shots per game but has scored only three goals so far this season.
NorthEast United FC has not won in their last three matches, but they have shown offensive strength, scoring seven goals from an expected goals (xG) value of 3.17. Coach Juan Pedro Benali acknowledged the need to close out games better but believes the team is improving. “We make mistakes and we learn from them,” he said.
Chennaiyin FC coach Owen Coyle respects the quality of NorthEast United FC but feels confident that his team can compete well. After their last away match ended in a draw, Coyle emphasized their readiness. “We know we can stand toe-to-toe with the best teams in the competition,” he stated.
In their overall head-to-head record, Chennaiyin FC has won eight of the 20 encounters, while NorthEast United has won seven, with five matches ending in draws.
