Chennaiyin FC Dominate East Bengal to Secure Crucial Victory in ISL

Chennaiyin FC put an end to their seven-match winless streak with a resounding 3-0 victory over East Bengal FC at the Salt Lake Stadium.¹ The Marina Machans delivered a dominant performance, with goals from Jordan Gil, an own goal from Nishu Kumar, and a late strike from Chima Chukwu securing a crucial win that keeps their playoff hopes alive.

The match started with a flurry of chances for both sides, but it was Chennaiyin who drew first blood in the 13th minute.² A swift counter-attack saw Connor Shields race into the East Bengal box, and his attempted cross was inadvertently turned into the net by defender Nishu Kumar.

Chennaiyin doubled their lead just minutes later when Gil expertly guided a cross from Irfan Yadvad into the back of the net. The visitors continued to threaten, with Rafael Crivellaro and Edwin Sydney Vanspaul both coming close to extending their advantage.

East Bengal struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half, with their attacking players failing to find their rhythm. However, they came out with renewed purpose after the break, creating several opportunities to get back into the match.

Their best chance fell to Dimitrios Diamantakos, who was denied from close range by Chennaiyin goalkeeper Mohammad Nawaz. East Bengal’s frustration grew as they missed further opportunities, with Saul Crespo and Richard Celis both failing to convert promising openings.

Despite East Bengal’s pressure, Chennaiyin’s defense held firm. The backline, led by Fallou Diagne and Vafa Hakhamaneshi, produced a disciplined and organized display to keep the home side at bay.

Chennaiyin sealed the victory in stoppage time when substitute Chima Chukwu scored from a Kiyan Nassiri assist.³ The goal capped off a dominant performance from the visitors and ensured a comfortable win.

This victory moves Chennaiyin up to seventh place in the ISL table with 21 points from 20 matches.⁴ They are now just three points behind fourth-placed NorthEast United, with a game in hand.

East Bengal, meanwhile, remain in ninth place with 18 points from 19 matches. Their defeat leaves them with a mountain to climb if they are to secure a playoff spot.

This match was a testament to Chennaiyin’s resilience and their ability to bounce back from a difficult run of results. Their impressive performance against East Bengal will give them confidence as they head into the final stages of the ISL season.