Football

'It's not over till it's over' - Fans react as Chennaiyin FC beat table topper Odisha FC by 2-1

In a thrilling encounter at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennaiyin FC revived its playoff aspirations with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Indian Super League (ISL) table-topper Odisha FC on Sunday.

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Mathew K
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Chennaiyin FC beat Odisha FC by 2-1

Chennaiyin FC beat Odisha FC by 2-1 (Source: Twitter)

In a thrilling encounter at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennaiyin FC revived its playoff aspirations with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Indian Super League (ISL) table-topper Odisha FC on Sunday. Despite the sparse local crowd, the atmosphere was charged as substitute Jordan Murray scored the decisive goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time, sending the fans into delirium.

Chennaiyin took an early lead in the first half when midfielder Rafael Crivellaro's corner found the unmarked Ankit Mukherjee, who cleverly flicked the ball past Odisha's towering defender Mourtada Fall. The home side exhibited relentless pressing and interceptions, disrupting Odisha's rhythm and neutralising their influential midfielder, Ahmed Jahouh.

Despite Chennaiyin's dominance, Odisha's quality emerged as Jahouh orchestrated precise passes, gradually bringing his team back into the game. Chennaiyin's goalkeeper, Debjit Majumder, showcased remarkable saves, denying close-range attempts from Roy Krishna and Isak Vanlalruatfela. At halftime, Odisha found themselves trailing, but a Jahouh-led resurgence kept them in contention.

Sergio Lobera makes a decisive change!

The second half saw a surprising move by Odisha's head coach, Sergio Lobera, substituting Jahouh for Cy Goddard. The change disrupted Odisha's control, allowing Chennaiyin numerous counter-attacking opportunities that went unexploited. However, Goddard's impact was evident in the 78th minute when his corner was expertly headed by Amey Ranawade into the path of Krishna, who equalized with a skilful finish.

In a strategic move, Lobera replaced Krishna with centre-back Carlos Delgado to secure a point. Despite big chances for Chennaiyin through substitutes Murray and Rahim Ali, the resilient Amrinder Singh thwarted their efforts. The home crowd's last rallying cry proved decisive as Murray, connecting with Connor Shields' corner, nodded the ball past Amrinder, securing a crucial victory for Chennaiyin.

While the three points only lifted Chennaiyin to the 10th position in the table, their performance showcased their potential and determination. Odisha, sharing the same points as second-placed Mohun Bagan Super Giant, faces uncertainties despite their table-topping status. The thrilling contest not only provided a much-needed win for Chennaiyin but also highlighted the unpredictability and excitement inherent in the ISL.

Here is how fans react to Chennaiyin’s victory:

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