The ISL Southern rivalry renews as Chennaiyin FC face Kerala Blasters FC, with both sides searching for their first win of the season. Chennaiyin come into the fixture after three games without victory, including a recent draw against Odisha FC, while Kerala Blasters have endured a difficult start with three consecutive defeats.
Over the years, matches between Chennaiyin and Kerala Blasters have grown into one of the league’s fiercest southern rivalries, fuelled by passionate fan bases and tightly contested encounters. With both teams under pressure to turn their seasons around, the latest chapter promises intensity and urgency from the opening whistle.
Chennaiyin FC’s attacking concerns
Chennaiyin showed signs of improvement in their draw against Odisha FC, where Elsinho scored the club’s first goal of the season. However, the team again struggled to capitalise on momentum. After Odisha equalised through Carlos Delgado , Chennaiyin created several second-half opportunities but failed to convert them into goals.
Forward Iñigo Martin has endured a difficult start to the campaign and missed a clear chance that could have secured victory. Midfielder Alberto Noguera has yet to influence matches the way Chennaiyin expected, while Ali Bemmamar has impressed with his ball-winning ability and defensive work in midfield.
Late attacking glimpses from Imran Khan created promising situations, but Chennaiyin lacked the finishing touch. Addressing those attacking inefficiencies will be crucial if they are to bounce back against their southern rivals.
Kerala Blasters’ difficult run
Kerala Blasters FC head into the fixture under pressure after three consecutive defeats to begin their campaign, including a recent loss against Inter Kashi. Defensive instability has been a recurring concern in those matches, and the club has already seen changes in personnel, with Oumar Bah departing after a brief three-game stint. In response, Kerala brought in Ndiaye Fallou to strengthen the backline and add experience in central defence.
Despite their difficult start, Kerala Blasters will look to use home advantage in Kochi and the backing of their passionate supporters to shift momentum. The team is expected to approach the match with greater attacking urgency while attempting to tighten their defensive organisation, as they seek to register their first positive result of the season against a Chennaiyin side also searching for consistency..
Team News
Chennaiyin have a few availability concerns ahead of the match. Irfan Yadwad remains a doubt and is considered 50-50 for selection. Meanwhile, striker Chima Chukwu is still awaiting visa clearance and has yet to join the squad, with delays reportedly linked to ongoing geopolitical issues.
Kerala Blasters are expected to have a fully fit squad except the availability of Korou Singh, who is battling some personal problems outside the field.
Predicted XI
Chennaiyin FC (4-2-3-1)
Mohammed Nawaz (GK), Dinliana, Pritam Kotal, Elsinho, Mandar, Ali Bemmamar, Maheson Singh, Farukh Choudhary, Alberto Noguera, Imran Khan, Inigo Martin
Kerala Blasters FC (4-3-3)
Arsh Anwer (GK), Matias Hernandez, Ndiaye Fallou, Sandeep Singh, Muhammed Saheef, Vibin Mohanan, Naocha Singh, Danish Farooq, Victor Bertomeu, Kevin Yoke, Ebindas.
Key Battles
Kevin Yoke vs Mandar Rao Dessai
The duel between Kévin Yoke and Mandar Rao Dessai could shape Kerala Blasters attacking rhythm on the flank. Yoke, who joined the club ahead of the season, has been brought in to add pace and directness to the frontline, often operating from wide areas where he can stretch defensive lines and deliver crosses into the box.
Mandar, meanwhile, brings experience and positional awareness for Chennaiyin. His ability to track overlapping runs and prevent space behind the defensive line will be crucial. If Mandar manages to contain Yoke’s pace and cut off supply into the penalty area, Chennaiyin can limit Kerala’s attacking width; if not, Yoke’s direct running could force Chennaiyin’s defence into uncomfortable situations.
Victor Bertomeu vs Elsinho
Kerala’s attacking threat is expected to revolve around Víctor Bertomeu, the Spanish forward signed to provide a focal point in the final third. Standing at around 1.85 m and operating primarily as a centre-forward, Bertomeu offers physical presence and finishing ability inside the box.
For Chennaiyin, Elsinho will have the responsibility of neutralising that threat. The Brazilian defender’s aerial strength and experience will be key in dealing with crosses and long balls aimed at Bertomeu. If Elsinho wins the aerial duels and maintains defensive positioning, Chennaiyin can keep Kerala’s striker quiet; if Bertomeu finds space in the box, he could become the decisive attacking outlet.
Imran Khan vs Muhammed Saheef
On the wing, Imran Khan provides Chennaiyin with energy and creativity in wide areas. In recent matches he has shown glimpses of attacking intent, delivering key passes and stretching opposition defences with his direct runs, although Chennaiyin have struggled to convert those opportunities into goals.
Kerala’s Muhammed Saheef will likely be tasked with stopping those advances. Saheef has been a regular presence in the Blasters’ defensive setup this season and must combine positional discipline with timely tackles to prevent crosses and through balls from Imran’s side. If Imran repeatedly beats his marker, Chennaiyin could create the chances they lacked earlier; if Saheef keeps him contained, Kerala can maintain defensive balance.
When and Where to Watch
The match between Chennaiyin FC and Kerala Blasters FC will be played at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi, with kick-off scheduled for March 07 at 7:30 PM IST. The match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network and streamed on the FanCode digital platform.
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