Chennaiyin FC vs Indian Army FT, Durand Cup 2024: Marina Machans lose 0-1 against impressive Indian Army in first match

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Liton Shil's impressive goal in the first half helped the Indian Army Football Team secure a win against Chennaiyin FC in a Durand Cup 2024 Group D match at the JRD Tata Sports Complex. This victory moves the Indian Army to second place in the group, behind Jamshedpur FC, who have a better goal difference.

Chennaiyin FC's Head Coach, Noel Wilson, fielded a young team consisting of a mix of ISL squad members and reserve players. In contrast, Indian Army's Head Coach, Manish Wahi, opted for an experienced lineup, retaining the core players from the squad that won the 2023-24 Santhosh Trophy, with Liton Shil and Samir Murmu leading the attack.

The Indian Army team utilized their experience effectively, pressing high and not allowing Chennaiyin to settle into the game. They dominated possession, building attacks from the back. Despite creating several opportunities, most of their shots were from outside the box, and Chennaiyin's goalkeeper, Samik Mitra, was not seriously troubled.

The first significant chance fell to Liton Shil, whose shot was blocked by the goalkeeper. On the other side, Chennaiyin striker Irfan Yadwad struggled to find support, as the Army defense contained wingers Vincy Barretto and Komal Thatal. The Indian Army took a deserved lead in the 42nd minute with a remarkable long-range goal by Liton Shil, beating the goalkeeper to find the top corner.

n the second half, the Indian Army continued to attack, with Lethaolen Khongsai nearly doubling the lead, only to be denied by a spectacular save from Mitra. Alan Thapa also missed a clear chance, and S.K. Premkumar's shot hit the crossbar, with the rebound being missed by Murmu.

Chennaiyin attempted a comeback around the hour mark, creating goal-scoring opportunities against a physical Indian Army side. Irfan Yadwad's left-footed shot was close, and R. Vishal missed a free header that could have equalized. Romario Jesuraj also squandered a clear chance from close range. Ultimately, the Indian Army managed to hold on to their lead and secure the victory.