Panji, Oct 24 (NationPress) Under the guidance of former India international forward Clifford Miranda, a 24-member squad representing Chennaiyin FC is gearing up for the 2025-26 AIFF Super Cup.

Placed in Group A, the Marina Machans will start their journey with a crucial match against Mohun Bagan Super Giant on October 25 at the Fatorda Stadium, followed by clashes with East Bengal FC and Dempo SC.

Miranda, a coach with a history of Super Cup success, brings a deep understanding of the Indian football landscape, shaped by his extensive playing and coaching career.

The 45-cap India international, previously at the helm of Goa and Odisha, marks his role as the club’s first Indian head coach, leading an entirely Indian squad throughout the tournament.

In a pre-match press conference, Miranda expressed, “For most teams, a training gap of more than five months is always a challenge. We need to quickly adapt as we prepare for our first match, followed by three games in just six days. This is the nature of football and life. Although it presents physical and adaptation challenges, we are prepared. I believe in our players who are eager to showcase their talent. We must be ready for the 25th.”

“This is a chance for our players to demonstrate our growth—not only from a Chennaiyin perspective but also from an Indian standpoint. We need to prove that we can succeed independently, not just in terms of results but also in our effort, mentality, and resilience. We excel at overcoming challenges,” he added, emphasizing the all-Indian composition of his team.

Miranda’s squad for the Super Cup presents an ideal mix of seasoned players and fresh talent, featuring established first-team players alongside promising newcomers from the reserve system. The lineup showcases solid depth across all positions, from dependable goalkeepers to a robust defense led by Pritam Kotal, a dynamic midfield anchored by Jiteshwor Singh and Lalrinliana Hnamte, and a vigorous attack featuring Irfan Yadwad and Farukh Choudhary.

During the press conference, Farukh remarked, “Since joining the club after my national team experience, the training sessions have been excellent. Although our preparation time has been limited, as the coach mentioned, we must adapt. Competing in three matches within six days is tough, but we are mentally prepared. I am thrilled to return to the club and eager to play in tomorrow’s match.”

After facing Mohun Bagan, Chennaiyin FC will meet East Bengal on October 28 and Dempo on October 31 at the GMC Athletic Stadium in Bambolim.

The Chennaiyin FC squad for the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 includes:

Goalkeepers: Samik Mitra, MD. Nawaz, Mohanraj K.

Defenders: PC Laldinpuia, Ankit Mukherjee, Mandar Rao Dessai, Pritam Kotal, Vignesh D., Laldinliana Renthlei, Sk. Rajjak Ali, Klusner John Manuel Pereira, Raj Basfore

Midfielders: Farukh Choudhary, Jitendra Singh, Maheson Singh, Lalrinliana Hnamte, Jiteshwor Singh, Karthick Thirumalai, Raman Singh Ngangom, Solaimalai R., Kingslee Fernandes

Forwards: Irfan Yadwad, Gurkirat Singh, Vivek S.