Chennai, April 7 (NationPress) Despite a late strike from Daniel Chima Chukwu, Chennaiyin FC suffered a close loss against Inter Kashi in their recent Indian Super League clash at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Tuesday.

Under Coach Miranda, the starting line-up featured forward Inigo Martin returning to lead the attack alongside Farukh Choudhary, Imran Khan, and Irfan Yadwad. Eduardo Kau rejoined the defensive line after filling in as a midfielder for the injured Mohammed Ali Bemammer in the last match, while the latter resumed his role in midfield alongside captain Alberto Noguera.

Chennaiyin began the match with vigor, as Vignesh D and Bemammer both attempted long-range shots. The Marina Machans continued to press, with Martin orchestrating their offensive strategies. He set up Farukh Choudhary with a precise pass, but the forward's touch was too heavy, allowing the defense to recover. Shortly after, Martin cut in from the side and narrowly missed the far post with a shot.

As the half unfolded, CFC's attack became increasingly fluid, with intricate rotations and quick exchanges troubling the Inter Kashi defense. A well-executed play saw Martin dropping back to switch the ball to Irfan, who then passed to Farukh, leading to a cross that was slightly overhit. Noguera also attempted to connect with Martin's run, only to be thwarted by a timely interception. On the flip side, Mohammad Nawaz made a spectacular save just before halftime, with Imran clearing the follow-up off the line to maintain the scoreline.

The second half marked a change in dynamics as Inter Kashi struck first. Alfred Planas opened the scoring with a long-range shot shortly after the break, quickly followed by another goal as he capitalized on a defensive lapse for a close-range finish. Chennaiyin retaliated by pushing forward, with Farukh testing the keeper from afar in search of an equalizer.

Miranda's substitutions brought fresh energy, as Mandar Rao Dessai nearly created an opportunity after being fed by Pritam Kotal, while Maheson Singh had a powerful volley blocked, and Noguera’s header from the corner was saved. Chennaiyin continued to press for a comeback, increasingly resorting to direct plays in the closing moments, and were finally rewarded in the fifth minute of stoppage time when Chima unleashed a volley past the keeper, marking his first goal of the season. However, it was too late to change the outcome.

The Marina Machans will aim to recover when they take on East Bengal in their next league match on Saturday.