In a shocking upset, newly promoted Mohammedan Sporting stole the show from Chennaiyin FC, securing a 1-0 victory in the first home game of the Indian Super League (ISL) season at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. This marked a disappointing start for Chennaiyin, who were unable to replicate the winning momentum they carried from the end of last season.
Right from the kick-off, Chennaiyin FC dominated possession, launching a relentless attack on the Mohammedan goal. They averaged a cross every five minutes, highlighting their intent to break through the Black Panther’s defense. Conor Shields, Chennaiyin’s set-piece specialist, delivered an impressive 12 crosses in the first half alone, but the ball consistently failed to find its way into the net. The crowd, roaring their support for the Marina Machans, particularly cheered for Farukh Choudhary, who had scored twice against Odisha in the previous game.
However, despite the early dominance, Chennaiyin’s defensive vulnerabilities were exposed when Mohammedan’s head coach, Andre Chernyshov, employed a strategic change after the cooling break. A long ball from the right flank by Vanlalzuidika Chhakchhuak caught Chennaiyin’s high defensive line off guard, leading to a dangerous moment that was eventually cleared.
The momentum then shifted in favor of Mohammedan. A similar long ball delivered by Chhakchhuak saw Chennaiyin’s Laldinpuia miss a headed clearance, allowing Alexis Gomez to take a shot that rattled the woodwork. The match remained goalless for only six minutes more, as another long ball from Chhakchhuak exposed the Marina Machans’ defensive frailties. This time, PC Laldinpuia’s mistake enabled Fanai Lalremsanga to find the back of the net, sending the home crowd into stunned silence.
Despite introducing fresh legs in midfield and attack in the second half, Chennaiyin was unable to penetrate Mohammedan’s defensive wall, which was anchored by a solid low block. The home side’s hope of replicating their comeback win from last season was dashed, as they found themselves frustrated by Mohammedan’s organized defense.
The match took a dramatic turn in the closing stages. Chennaiyin conceded a penalty in the stoppage time, but Cesar Manzoki’s shot was saved. In a last-minute attempt to salvage a draw, Lukas Brambilla came close to scoring for Chennaiyin. However, Chhakchhuak and Gaurav Bora’s joint-header saved the day for Mohammedan, ensuring that the visiting side walked away with all three points.
Chennaiyin will now travel to face Hyderabad FC on October 1st, while Mohammedan will take on Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the mini-Kolkata derby four days later. This victory marks a historic first win for Mohammedan Sporting in the ISL, while Chennaiyin will need to regroup and address their defensive weaknesses before their next match.
