ISL: Coach Coyle discusses Chennaiyin's challenges and aims for a strong finish against East Bengal
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Synopsis
Chennaiyin FC's coach Owen Coyle recognizes the team's struggles this season but aims for a strong finish, beginning with their Indian Super League match against East Bengal FC in Kolkata this Saturday.
Key Takeaways
- Coach Owen Coyle emphasizes the need for victories.
- Chennaiyin FC aims to improve their performance.
- Players are united and motivated for upcoming matches.
- Focus on the Super Cup and AFC spots remains strong.
- Injury updates: Laldinliana Renthlei out, Vignesh Dakshinamurthy back in training.
Chennai, Feb 6 (NationPress) Head coach Owen Coyle of Chennaiyin FC has recognized the difficulties his team has encountered this season but has rallied to aim for a solid conclusion, commencing with their Indian Super League 2024-25 encounter against East Bengal FC in Kolkata on Saturday.
The earlier clash between the Marina Machans and the Red and Gold Brigade ended in favor of the latter. However, with the head-to-head record evenly matched at two wins for each side, there is everything to play for at the Salt Lake Stadium.
“The boys are eager to get back on the pitch. We are aware of the effort they put in during the match against the Kerala Blasters. We also understand, as we did at the time, that Wilmar Jordan Gil's red card was unjust. It has occurred before, but ultimately, we, as a collective, must start securing victories,” Coyle expressed in a media conference in Chennai on Thursday.
“We need to improve our performance. If we don't, we expose ourselves to legitimate criticism, and that’s part of football. The only individuals who can alter that narrative are us,” Coyle stated.
“We possess players capable of winning matches, and that is what we must commence doing. Losing a rivalry game is never pleasant, but we need to regroup, aim to finish the season strongly, starting with East Bengal,” he added.
Goalkeeper Mohammad Nawaz, who accompanied Coyle, emphasized the unity within the team and their enthusiasm for the upcoming matches.
“What has transpired is in the past. We have a handful of matches remaining, so our focus should be on each game and giving our utmost effort. That is within our control. We have performed well but have suffered due to single mistakes during the 90 minutes,” Nawaz stated.
“We are lacking a touch of luck. As a cohesive unit, we are committed. We will exert our best effort against East Bengal and are eagerly anticipating the match,” he continued.
Coyle supported Nawaz's comments by reiterating that the team’s determination remains unwavering, particularly with the Super Cup and AFC spots still in contention.
“It’s crucial, as Nawaz mentioned, that we commence strongly against East Bengal and aim for a successful run to conclude the season. There’s a Super Cup to compete for, with an AFC spot at stake. No one has surrendered yet,” he remarked.
Additionally, Coyle confirmed that Laldinliana Renthlei will miss the trip to East Bengal due to requiring surgery for a shoulder issue, but stated that Vignesh Dakshinamurthy has returned to training and could be fit for selection.
