Bhubaneswar, Sep 14 (PTI) – In a thrilling encounter at the Kalinga Stadium, Chennaiyin FC managed to halt Odisha FC’s impressive 569-day unbeaten run at home with a dramatic come-from-behind 3-2 victory in the Indian Super League on Saturday.

The match was ignited by stellar performances from Farukh Choudhary and Daniel Chima Chukwu, whose goals played a pivotal role in Chennaiyin’s triumph. Farukh Choudhary, netting twice within three minutes (48th, 51st), and a powerful strike from Daniel Chima Chukwu in the 69th minute secured the win for the visitors.

The game kicked off with high energy as Samik Mitra made an early crucial save to deny Odisha FC. Chennaiyin’s initial appeal for a penalty, led by Farukh Choudhary, was dismissed by the referee. However, drama unfolded when Hugo Boumous was brought down in the box by Samik Mitra, leading to a penalty for Odisha. Diego Mauricio made no mistake from the spot, giving Odisha an early lead.

Despite falling behind, Chennaiyin showcased their resilience. Connor Shields had an effort blocked midway through the first half, and Farukh Choudhary narrowly missed from close range. Samik Mitra continued to keep Chennaiyin in the game with a superb save after Hnamte’s brilliant free-kick hit the upright.

Chennaiyin’s persistence paid off in the second half. Farukh Choudhary tapped in the equalizer from close range after Connor Shields made an impressive run into the box and set up the opportunity. Minutes later, Farukh doubled his tally by intercepting a poor pass from Amrinder and skillfully slotting the ball through Ahmed Jahouh’s legs to put Chennaiyin ahead.

The defining moment came in the 69th minute when right-back Laldinliana Renthlei delivered a precise cross to Daniel Chima Chukwu, who unleashed a thunderous volley on the half-turn to extend Chennaiyin’s lead. Odisha FC managed to pull one back in stoppage time through Roy Krishna, but it was not enough to prevent Chennaiyin from claiming all three points.

Looking ahead, Chennaiyin FC aims to build on this positive start to their season as they prepare to face newly-promoted Mohammedan SC in their first home game on September 26. Meanwhile, Odisha FC will seek to rebound from this defeat when they travel to New Delhi to take on Punjab FC on September 20. PTI UNG AM 7/21/2024 AM AM