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The Delhi Dynamos are set to host Marco Materazzi's Chennayin FC in what will be the third outing for both the teams in the campaign.
The two sides have started on slightly different notes from each other in which the former has drawn both of their previous games while the latter has six points from the same. This could kick start Delhi's campaign if they pick up some momentum which they gained in a much improved performance against the high flying ATK.
Venue & Kick Off
The JLN stadium in Delhi could be a favourable venue for some quality football because of the relatively cooler and the least humid weather conditions among the 8 teams at this time of the year. A 25,000+ turnout in the first home game should be bettered this time since this game will take place on a weekend (unlike the first one).Kickoff: 25th October – 7 PM IST
Form Guide
As mentioned earlier, Delhi Dynamos have only played two games which ended in draws. The opening goal-less draw against Pune City F.C was mostly an implosion with a few chances in each half. The second game in which Del Piero and co travelled to face the table toppers in Kolkata, was a much better showing and increased signs of better team chemistry were witnessed. The 1-1 draw would have left Harm Van Veldhoven with mixed feelings since they failed to carve out any clear cut chances after the ATK were reduced to 10 men.
Chennayin FC have started the campaign with two close wins against Goa F.C and Kerala Blasters in their opening two games. Materazzi couldn't have imagined a better start to his management career. With attention to detail, the Italian has his tactics spot on till now. The two successive 2-1 victories against Goa (away) and Kerala (home) showed signs of a team which can absorb pressure in the defence for long periods.
Possible Lineups
Delhi Dynamos: It will be interesting to see whether Pavel Ellias will start at RB which looked like a decision to defend against a strong Kolkata attack. A more attacking line up than the previously played 4-3-3 at the salt lake stadium will be on the cards.
Chennayin FC: Playing an away game against his former Italian team-mate, one could expect Chennayin's gaffer to have a special plan to control Del Piero. New Signings Djemba Djemba and Maurice will be fresh options to build on the preserve the winning streak.
Key Facts and Stats
- Both the teams are unbeaten in the league right now (Atletico de Kolkata is the other unbeaten team) and it looks likely that it might change for one of the two.
- Chennayin’s starting XI is likely to have two players affiliated to Manchester United – Bojan Djordjic and Mikael Silvestre. Djordjic is a product of the youth academy and the Silvestre has spent most of his senior career at the famous EPL club.
Key Battles
Shylo vs Mendy
The East Bengal winger has the tenacity and the composure to produce game changing moments and has been knocking on the door. His long ranger hit the bar against Atletico de Kolkata and could have gotten them the three points. Mendy will definitely be the toughest opponent he has had to face till now, but it will be interesting to see who comes out on top.
Elano vs Hans Mulder
The Brazillian playmaker will be dropping in from the attacking midfield position and the Dutch defensive midfielder must take responsibility against the player who has scored in both the games which Chennaiyin has played before. Mulder and all his other defensive teammates will be instructed to not give away cheap free-kicks near the box, considering Elano's knack for scoring those.
Junker vs Gourmangi Singh
The most expensive Indian defender will have to put in a strong shift against the Dane who still hasn't opened his account after a splendid pre-season. With all the attention on Alessandro Del Piero, potential spaces could open up for him.
Prediction
Delhi Dynamos 2-1 Chennayin FC
