ISL 2024-25: Back-to-back wins, East Bengal beat Chennaiyin by 2-0
East Bengal: 2
Chennaiyin FC: 0
Xtra Time Web Desk: East Bengal continued their winning momentum in the Indian Super League (ISL) with a 2-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC in an away match. Following their home win against NorthEast United, goals from PV Vishnu and Jixon Singh helped the Red and Gold Brigade climb from 13th to 12th in the points table. However, a yellow card shown to Saul Crespo, even after leaving the field, might pose concerns for coach Oscar Bruzon.
Vishnu's impact and a decisive goal
Coach Bruzon opted to play PV Vishnu on the left wing in place of Nandhakumar, despite the latter being available. Vishnu justified the trust by delivering a standout performance. He followed a pass from Naorem Mahesh to assist Crespo, taking advantage of a mistake by goalkeeper Mohammad Nawaz to score. Vishnu’s relentless runs, precise passes, and consistent pressure on the opposition defense made him a pivotal figure in the victory.
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Crespo's injury and yellow card
After assisting Vishnu's goal, Crespo suffered a twisted ankle and had to be stretchered off the field. However, frustration got the better of the Spanish midfielder as he earned a yellow card for dissent from the reserve bench. This was his fourth yellow card, making him ineligible for the next match against Odisha. Bruzon is likely to address this lapse in discipline with Crespo post-match.
East Bengal’s late-game surge
Despite the lead, East Bengal appeared shaky in maintaining control. Substituting Dimitrios Diamantakos with Clayton Silva revitalized the attack, with Nandhakumar providing strong support. East Bengal launched multiple attacks in the final 15 minutes, but Clayton squandered two easy opportunities. His performance might provide temporary confidence, although efforts to replace him with Brazil’s Robson during the January transfer window are ongoing.
Challenges in ball possession
In the first half, East Bengal struggled to move the ball effectively into the final third. Diamantakos received limited service due to Chennaiyin’s midfield dominance, particularly their tight marking of Madi Talal. The French midfielder struggled to bypass the pressure, leading to a midfield stalemate. Additionally, frequent mispasses disrupted East Bengal's rhythm.
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Neutralizing Connor Shields
While East Bengal faced their challenges, they successfully contained Chennaiyin’s key playmaker, Connor Shields. Souvik Chakraborty marked him effectively, limiting his ability to supply quality passes to forward Daniel Chima Chukwu. Shields, who had troubled Mohun Bagan in the previous match, failed to replicate his form, as East Bengal’s disciplined defense neutralized his threats.
With this victory, East Bengal builds momentum but faces key challenges in discipline and consistency as they prepare for their next clash.
