Chennaiyin FC head to Kolkata looking to recover from their 1–0 defeat to Mumbai City FC in their first game, as they prepare to face defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant. The loss in Mumbai highlighted familiar concerns, including defensive lapses and a lack of cutting edge in the final third, and Chennaiyin now face another demanding test against one of the league’s most settled sides.
Mohun Bagan, meanwhile, began their campaign strongly with a 2–0 win over Kerala Blasters FC and arrive with confidence and momentum. With squad continuity and attacking rhythm on their side, they will aim to build on that start, while Chennaiyin seek a positive response to avoid slipping further behind early in the season.
Chennaiyin FC aim to return to winning ways
Chennaiyin’s opener against Mumbai ended in disappointment, with a defensive mistake from Pritam Kotal leading to an own goal that remained the difference as the match ended. More worrying was the lack of threat in the final third, as Chennaiyin struggled to create clear chances despite decent spells of possession. Their midfield needs to be more proactive, moving the ball quicker and supporting attacks rather than playing safe passes.
The influence of Alberto Noguera will be critical in this regard. Chennaiyin need him more involved in advanced areas to link midfield with attack, while Ali Bemmamar must win second balls and provide defensive balance. The return of Elsinho adds aerial presence and experience in defense, but the side must show sharper attacking combinations and defensive discipline if they are to bounce back against Mohun Bagan.
Mohun Bagan looks to continue winning start
Mohun Bagan Super Giant looked organised and clinical in their opening win over Kerala Blasters FC, with goals from Jamie Maclaren and Tom Aldred underlining their efficiency in both open play and set-piece situations. In midfield, Anirudh Thapa impressed with his energy and an assist, while Lalengmawia Ralte delivered a Man-of-the-Match performance that highlighted Mohun Bagan’s control in central areas.
Against Chennaiyin, Mohun Bagan are likely to rely on the same structure, pressing early, controlling possession, and using width to stretch the defence. Their ability to take the lead and manage games has been a key strength, and they will look to impose that rhythm again against a Chennaiyin side still searching for attacking sharpness and defensive stability.
Head-to-Head:
The most recent meeting between Chennaiyin FC and Mohun Bagan SG came in the 2025/26 AIFF Super Cup. It was Clifford Miranda’s first game in charge of the Marina Machans with the game ending in a 2-0 win for the Mariners.
Total matches: 10
Mohun Bagan wins: 06
Draws: 02
Chennaiyin FC wins: 02
Team News
No major injury concerns have been officially reported ahead of the match. However, Chennaiyin head coach Clifford Miranda confirmed that Vignesh Dakshinamurthy, Ankit Mukherjee, and Farukh Choudhary were not part of the previous matchday squad due to fitness concerns, and their availability against Mohun Bagan Super Giant remains uncertain.
In Clifford’s words, “They had some small issues here and there. Not injuries, but with regards to fitness, They, are in the final phase (of recovery).”
Predicted XI
Chennaiyin FC (4-2-3-1)
Mohammed Nawaz (GK): Dinliana, Pritam Kotal, Elsinho, Mandar; Ali Bemmamar, Hnamte; Irfan Yadwad, Alberto Noguera, Imran Khan; Iñigo Martin
Mohun Bagan SG (4-4-2)
Vishal Kaith, Subhasish Bose, Alberto Rodríguez, Mehtab Singh, Tekcham Abhishek; Liston Colaco, Anirudh Thapa, Apuia, Robson Robinho; Jamie Maclaren, Dimitri Petratos;
Key Battles
Alberto Noguera vs Apuia
Alberto Noguera’s ability to control tempo and operate between the lines will be crucial for Chennaiyin, while Lalengmawia Ralte brings energy, pressing, and ball-winning ability in midfield for the Mariners.
If Apuia limits Noguera’s space and passing lanes, Chennaiyin may struggle to progress play and create chances; if Noguera finds rhythm, Chennaiyin’s attack will look far more threatening with the quality of Irfan Yadwad and Inigo Martin upfront.
Jamie Maclaren vs Elsinho
Jamie Maclaren’s movement inside the box and sharp finishing will test the positioning and aerial strength of Elsinho. Maclaren thrives on quick passes and crosses, so Elsinho’s timing in tackles and ability to dominate aerial duels will be key to Chennaiyin’s defensive stability.
Unlike the last game where Elsinho looked a bit rusty, he has to be on top of his game to stop the Mariners’ attack. Even a small mistake from him will end up in the back of the net given the quality of Maclaren and Petratos.
Inigo Martin vs Alberto Rodriguez
Inigo Martin’s link-up play and pressing from the front will be marked by the experience and physical presence of Alberto Rodríguez. Not an aerial threat, Inigo displayed glimpses of brilliance with his link-up play and runs inside the box for low crosses in the last game.
If Alberto controls Martin’s movement and wins all his duels against the Spanish striker, Mohun Bagan can build from the back comfortably; Conversely, if Martin disrupts their defense, Chennaiyin could create valuable chances.
When and Where to Watch
The match between Chennaiyin FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant will be played on 23 February at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30 PM IST. The game will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network and streamed on the FanCode digital platform.
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