ISL 2018-19: Chennaiyin FC vs ATK: Match preview and prediction
The only two former champions of the Indian Super League (ISL) will be clashing tonight, and unfortunately, neither of them have been performing well this term. While Chennaiyin is suffering in the eight spot on the table with just one win in nine matches, ATK have not been much better, taking up the sixth spot with three wins, losses, and draws each so far.
How are the two sides gearing up for the encounter?
Chennaiyin's Dhanpal Ganesh will be out with an injury, while Germanpreet Singh might return to the fold tonight. Chennai are likely to line-up in a 4-2-3-1 formation and have to create numerous chances against the defensively sound ATK using a 4-3-3. Komal Thatal will most likely play tonight for ATK in Hitesh Sharma's place. Pronay Halder's suspension can be a major hindrance for ATK tonight.
Key players from the two sides
Raphael Augusto has been an important player for Chennaiyin when it comes to their attacking options, as has been Anirudh Thapa who is a blessing in the midfield. Chennaiyin have not been impressive on any front, and need to start producing positive results soon. ATK have Manuel Lanzarote as their target man, with Andre Bikey and John Johnson making the defense strong.
Predicted line-ups and TV listing
Chennaiyin: Ghosh; Dinliana, Mailson, Eil Sabia, Lalrinzuala; Germanpreet, Thapa; Thoi, Augusto, Orlandi; Salom. ATK: Arindam; Aniket, Johnson, Bikey, Ricky; Hitesh, Gerson, Everton; Komal, Lanzarote, Balwant. The match is scheduled to kick-off at 7:30 PM, and can be watched on the Star Sports network or live-streamed on Hotstar.
How can the match turn out?
Chennaiyin have been poor in all respects so far, with no sign of their dominance from the previous season, and have been far from showing the merit of a defending champion. With Kolkata's defense now in place, they should try and attack more to win matches if they hope to climb the group table. Chennaiyin will have a tough time containing ATK tonight.
How has the league shaped up till now?
Bengaluru sit firmly at the top of the table with 22 points from eight matches, and NorthEast United, with 18 points, are second after drawing with Jamshedpur last night. Goa sit third with 17 points. ATK can still achieve something impressive but have to get out of their defensive state of mind to really start making an impact. Benagluru's dominance apart, this season has been closely-fought.
