ISL 2023-24: Chennaiyin FC edges past Hyderabad FC

Chennaiyin FC secured their inaugural victory in the 2023-24 Indian Super League at the GMC Balayogi Stadium in Hyderabad on Monday, narrowly defeating Hyderabad FC. In contrast, Hyderabad FC remains winless after three matches.

The match began with Chennaiyin FC adopting an attacking approach, displaying a series of precise passes. Ankit Mukherjee's pinpoint cross from the right flank reached Shields, positioning him perfectly in front of the goal to score.

The pivotal moment of the game arrived early when Shields found the back of the net in the seventh minute.

Chennaiyin FC maintained their relentless pursuit of a second goal, while Hyderabad FC's first genuine scoring opportunity materialized in the 14th minute when Joao Victor's shot from the center of the box sailed over the crossbar. Aaren D'Silva missed a crucial pass from Petteri Pennanen in the box in the 21st minute.

As halftime approached, Chennaiyin FC's goalkeeper, Debjit Majumder, made an exceptional save in the 41st minute to deny Victor's attempt.

The start of the second half saw Hyderabad FC launch a determined offensive, but Chennaiyin's defense stood firm, warding off threats to their goal. Shields made a significant contribution in the 61st minute, earning a crucial free-kick on the left wing. However, Rafael Crivellaro couldn't find a teammate in the 18-yard box.

In the 83rd minute, Shields once again showcased his skills, winning the ball in Hyderabad's half and providing a precise pass to Rahim Ali. Unfortunately, Ali's shot veered away from the goal, and a mistake by Nikhil Poojary nearly doubled Chennaiyin FC's lead.

The game's closing moments were intense, with Jordan Murray having a scoring opportunity in the 89th minute, but goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh made an excellent save to preserve the one-goal deficit for Hyderabad FC.

Nonetheless, Chennaiyin FC can breathe a sigh of relief after securing their first three points following a challenging start to the season.

Chennaiyin FC's next challenge awaits as they prepare to face Punjab FC in their fifth match of the season at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai on October 29.

Hyderabad are back in action when they travel to Mumbai to take on the Islanders at the Mumbai Football Arena in a 5:30pm kick off on Saturday, October 28.