Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], September 14 (ANI): In a thrilling opener of the Indian Super League 2024-25 season, Chennaiyin FC orchestrated a remarkable comeback to defeat Odisha FC 3-2 at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Saturday. The match showcased stellar performances from Farukh Choudhary and Daniel Chima Chukwu, who each found the net, helping Chennaiyin FC overturn an initial deficit.

Owen Coyle’s side put an end to Odisha FC’s impressive 569-day unbeaten home streak with an emphatic performance. Farukh Choudhary was the standout star, netting twice in quick succession (48′, 51′), while Daniel Chima Chukwu added a powerful strike in the 69th minute to seal the victory. This strategic triumph underscored the effectiveness of Chennaiyin FC’s busy transfer window, which saw them bolstering their squad with 13 new signings. Notably, experienced players like Mandar Rao Desai and the promising Lalrinliana Hnamte made their debuts and significantly contributed to the win.

The match kicked off with high intensity at the Kalinga Stadium. Early on, Chennaiyin FC’s goalkeeper Samik Mitra made a crucial save to keep Odisha at bay. Moments later, Farukh Choudhary’s call for a penalty was dismissed by the referee. However, a contentious decision saw Hugo Boumous earning a spot-kick for Odisha after a soft challenge from Samik Mitra. Diego Mauricio converted the penalty, granting Odisha an early lead.

Chennaiyin FC’s response was swift and vigorous. Connor Shields had a shot blocked midway through the first half, and Farukh narrowly missed scoring from close range. Goalkeeper Samik Mitra was instrumental once again, making a spectacular last-ditch save to prevent Odisha from doubling their lead. Lalrinliana Hnamte almost equalized with a stunning free-kick that rattled the crossbar.

The second half saw Chennaiyin FC coming out with renewed energy. Farukh Choudhary capitalized on this momentum by scoring the equalizer from close range after Connor Shields made an incisive run into the box, delivering a perfect assist. Just seconds later, Farukh intercepted a misplaced pass from Odisha’s Amrinder Singh, maintained his composure, and slotted the ball through Ahmed Jahouh’s legs to put Chennaiyin ahead.

The highlight of the match came in the 69th minute when new signing Laldinliana Renthlei provided a precise cross for Daniel Chima Chukwu, who unleashed a powerful volley into the net, sparking joyous celebrations on the sidelines. Although Roy Krishna managed to score a consolation goal for Odisha in stoppage time, Chennaiyin FC held firm to secure all three points.

Buoyed by this confident start, the Marina Machans are now setting their sights on their first home game of the season against newly-promoted Mohammedan SC on September 26. This victory not only marks a promising beginning to their campaign but also signals their intent to be strong contenders throughout the season.