Bhubaneswar, March 1 (NationPress) In a thrilling encounter at the Kalinga Stadium on Sunday, Chennaiyin FC managed to earn their initial point in the 2026 Indian Super League (ISL) season by holding Odisha FC to a 1-1 draw. The Marina Machans displayed a dominant performance for significant portions of the match, taking the lead just before halftime thanks to Elsinho, who scored his first goal in the ISL. However, the home side equalized through a header from Carlos Delgado midway through the second half.

Head coach Clifford Miranda implemented two changes to the starting lineup, allowing Farukh Choudhary a spot in the attack while Maheson Singh made his league debut partnering Mohammed Ali Bemammer in midfield.

Chennaiyin began the match with enthusiasm, riding the wave of last season's unbeaten streak against the Juggernauts. Within the first six minutes, a swift move saw Mandar Rao Dessai sprint down the left flank, with his cutback nearly reaching Iñigo Martin before the defense intervened. Shortly after, Alberto Noguera connected with Irfan Yadwad, but the latter’s pullback was intercepted.

From the ensuing corner, Farukh quickly reacted to a loose ball and unleashed a powerful volley, which was bravely blocked. Chennaiyin continued to exploit Odisha's backline with their width, while Maheson and Martin formed a solid partnership, generating half-chances that kept the hosts alert.

The breakthrough occurred at the end of the first half. Elsinho met Farukh’s inswinging corner with a towering header, propelling the ball into the net for a well-deserved 1-0 lead. Mohammad Nawaz, the goalkeeper, made a crucial save shortly after to ensure Chennaiyin went into halftime in front.

Upon resuming, Chennaiyin continued to push forward. Imran Khan and Lalrinliana Hnamte were brought on before the hour mark, with Iñigo Martin creating space and driving into the box, only for his curling shot to narrowly miss the target. Later, Klusner Pereira replaced Farukh as Chennaiyin sought to capitalize on their momentum.

Despite Chennaiyin's control over the game, Odisha equalized in the 68th minute when Delgado scored with a well-placed header. The visitors quickly responded, as Imran attempted a long-range shot and delivered a threatening cross that Martin almost converted.

In the final moments, Vivek S and Gurkirat Singh were introduced as Chennaiyin sought a late winner. Deep in stoppage time, a penalty appeal from Gurkirat was dismissed, and Laldinliana Renthlei’s enticing cross found Imran unmarked, but his header went over the bar.

Despite an impressive performance, Chennaiyin had to settle for a single point and will now look to gather momentum as they face Kerala Blasters on March 7.