ISL 2026: Chennaiyin FC Eyes Comeback In The Penultimate Clash Against North East United

Chennaiyin FC will try to end a tough Indian Super League 2026 campaign on a strong note when they visit NorthEast United on Sunday. The clash in Chennai’s penultimate league match comes after a narrow loss, decided by a late own goal.

Only one league position separates NorthEast United and Chennaiyin FC before this game. Both sides want a late rise in the table as the season nears its end. Chennaiyin hold a better record in this clash, with 11 wins from 24 meetings in all competitions.

Chennaiyin head coach Clifford Rayes Miranda said the approach stays the same despite the pressure. “Both teams will want to win just like in any other game. It's the same every time we step onto the pitch; both sides are there to compete for the three points,” he said.

Miranda praised NorthEast United’s style of play and flexibility. “They (NorthEast) are a team that likes to play football and keep the ball on the floor. They have a multi-dimensional way of playing, they can build through possession, they can go direct, and they combine very well,” he told the media.

He noted that NorthEast United has had selection issues, including missing several international players. Miranda linked their struggles with Chennaiyin’s season, saying both clubs did not take early chances and also lost foreign players due to the delayed league start, making this meeting feel even.

Chennaiyin’s last match turned on a late set-piece, which led to an own goal off Lalrinliana Hnamte’s back. Miranda said the team defended most deliveries well. He felt the decisive moment was unlucky, but stressed the need to finish chances when they appear.

Miranda insisted the team is on the right track despite the results. “Things will change. We are doing the right things. It's just a matter of time before we keep our concentration levels for 90 minutes and get the best out of it,” the coach said.

Defender PC Laldinpuia joined Miranda at the press conference and spoke about tactical shifts from last season. “It's a different tactic and a different philosophy. Whenever a new coach comes in, the players have to adapt to the system,” he said, stressing the duty to give full effort.

Laldinpuia highlighted the demands on defenders who come on late. “As a defender, whenever the coach puts you into the game, the most important thing is to give your best. Especially in matches, the last 15 minutes are often the most difficult part of the 90,” he said.

Miranda confirmed there are no fresh injury concerns before the NorthEast United fixture. Chennaiyin’s edge in this rivalry remains clear from records: 24 matches in all competitions, with Chennaiyin winning 11, NorthEast taking 8, and 5 games ending in draws.