Chennaiyin aims for momentum in away clash against Punjab FC

CHENNAI: Chennaiyin FC will be aiming to build momentum in the closing stages of their Indian Super League 2026 campaign when they travel to take on Punjab FC on Wednesday.

With just three matches left in the season, the Marina Machans are focused on finishing strongly and carrying that impetus forward. With two of their final three fixtures coming away from home, the clash against Punjab presents an important opportunity to set the tone.

The two sides have shared a closely contested record in recent meetings. Chennaiyin registered a 2-1 win in their last meeting, while across the last five encounters, the Marina Machans have won two and drawn one, underlining the competitive nature of this fixture.

Looking ahead to the match, head coach Clifford Miranda emphasised the need to defend well against a challenging side.

“About Punjab, everyone knows they are a very good team going forward. Their strongest players are in the offensive third. They also have some very good Indian players. We know it’s going to be difficult, and we know they are a threat, especially when they play direct. They move the ball quickly, trying to split teams open and find their attackers early. From there, they rely on strong, powerful individuals. So, we need to defend well—really defend well as a group,” he said in his pre-match press conference on Monday.

Amid a difficult season, Chennaiyin have remained focused on building a clear identity under Miranda. Reflecting on that process, the head coach said:

“We know exactly what we are trying to build, and I believe we are on the right path. This isn’t a normal season where you have a long pre-season and more time to implement ideas. When you try to do something different from what the team has been used to, it takes time. But I can already see the progress. We are clear about what we are trying to do.”

“The most important thing is to understand the way we want to play, and that will not change until the last game. Of course, results matter, we want to win the remaining three matches. It won’t be easy, but we have to keep working hard, stay dedicated, and give 100 percent,” the head coach said.