Chennai, April 10 (NationPress) Chennaiyin FC is determined to regain their winning form as they prepare to face East Bengal in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26. After a recent setback, they are keen to regain momentum.

Currently positioned fifth in the standings, East Bengal has secured victories in three out of six matches, making this fixture a significant challenge. The Marina Machans will aim to capitalize on their past successes—CFC previously triumphed with a dominant 3-0 win when these teams last clashed—and leverage their home advantage to ascend the league table.

“I consider East Bengal to be the most well-rounded squad in the league. Competing against them is not straightforward as they possess great strength in the midfield and remarkable speed on the flanks. They also feature one of the league's standout strikers. This team exhibits an excellent balance, capable of controlling possession while also executing direct plays. They are among the toughest competitors in the league,” stated Chennaiyin head coach Clifford Rayes Miranda during his pre-match media briefing on Friday.

“The challenge ahead is formidable—very challenging. However, we will put in our utmost effort and aim for victory, particularly since this match is at our home ground.”

Miranda also discussed Chennaiyin’s struggles in front of goal this season, explaining the tactical shifts underway and the next steps for enhancing their attacking play.

“At this moment, our goal tally does not reflect our efforts. This is partly due to our limited penetrations into the final third, and I understand the reasons behind that. When I arrived, the team was adhering to a more direct style of play, and I required time to implement my vision. My approach is centered around what I term progressive possession-based football. We can play directly if the opponent presses us, but if they hold back, we maintain possession. It’s about being patient and controlling the ball,” elaborated the CFC head coach.

“Initially, I needed to transition the team towards a more positional, possession-oriented strategy, which required time. Now that we are progressing, the next phase involves assisting the players in making improved decisions as they advance.”

Mandar Rao Dessai, a senior team member who has participated in the first five matches and was substituted in the sixth, joined Miranda in the press conference. He addressed the team's current form while setting clear goals moving forward.

“From our very first match, the team has been working hard and striving for improvement with each game. As we play on our home turf, we are determined to win all our home matches. Regrettably, our last outing ended in defeat,” said Mandar. “However, as we head into the upcoming game, we have trained diligently and have a strategy in place. It’s about maintaining unity as a team and striving for those three points.”

Finally, Miranda confirmed that, for the first time this season, he expects to have the complete squad available for the visit from East Bengal.