Odisha FC vs Chennaiyin FC: Owen Coyle aims to start off with a 'Tough Win' against Kalinga Warriors

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Chennaiyin FC head coach Owen Coyle is aiming for a victorious start to the Indian Super League 202425 season. His team will face Odisha FC at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Saturday (September 14).

Despite starting their campaign away from home, Coyle expressed confidence in his team's ability to secure maximum points. He believes his squad has what it takes to deliver a victory.

"We'll pick the best team to face Odisha FC. I'd love to win a tough game against a strong opponent. It's a well-run club, and we're looking forward to the challenge We know that if we at our best, it's a game we can win, and that's exactly how we'll approach it," Coyle told the media during Thursday's pre-match press conference.

Squad Strength and New Signings

Chennaiyin FC has been active in the transfer market during the pre-season, enhancing their squad with 13 new signings. The team has added a mix of Indian and international talent, both young and experienced, including notable names such as Mandar Rao Desai, Kiyan Nassiri, Wilmar Jordan, and Elsinho. These additions provide Coyle with significant options across all positions.

"If you look at our squad, we probably have the smallest number of bonafide first-team players. However, we've ensured that we have two players for every position-something we lacked last season, certainly in terms of this level of depth and strength," Coyle noted.

Forward Connor Shields also echoed the coach's sentiments about the squad's ambition during the press conference. "I'm happy as long as I can contribute to the team," Shields said. "There's definitely more competition within the squad. The standards have been very high, and what the gaffer says motivates you to train harder and earn your place in the starting lineup."