Chennaiyin FC play their second group stage encounter of the 2019 AFC Cup when they take on Nepalese side Manang Marshyangdi Club at the Arena Stadium in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. The Marina Machans registered a goalless draw against Hero I-League side Minerva Punjab during their first match of the competition but, given their recent upturn in form, will be confident of securing a victory this time around.

Chennaiyin’s recent run of results saw them reach the final of the 2019 Hero Super Cup, where they narrowly lost out to FC Goa. In contrast to a horrific league season, they showed grit and determination throughout the Hero Super Cup and will be hoping to continue their good vein of form on the Asian stage.

At the pre-match press conference, head coach John Gregory spoke to the media on his side’s expectations heading into the game. The Englishman began by addressing the loss to Goa and their mentality heading into the AFC Cup tie. “We obviously come into this game a bit disappointed, after the Super Cup final defeat, but I can assure you we are fully focused on the game against Manang Marshyangdi. It is a huge occasion to be in the AFC Cup, for our city of Chennai and the country. It will be a tough game, but we are more than ready.” he remarked.

Talking about how the side can improve after their opening game against Minerva, Gregory said, “In the first group match against Minerva, we had a lot of opportunities to score goals and win the game. Nevertheless, we kept a clean sheet, which is great to build on. I need to pick teams that can score goals and win matches, be more offensive. I am very happy with the way my boys have performed, especially given how long our season has been.”

One aspect which has played a big role in Chennaiyin’s resurgence has been the return of Dhanpal Ganesh and Jerry Lalrinzuala to the squad. Ganesh in particular has been pivotal to the two-time Hero ISL Champions’ structure in midfield. “It definitely was an issue with us the entire season, replacing somebody of Ganesh's stature. His return has given us a huge boost. It is really commendable, what he brings to the pitch for us. He has improved us as a team immensely,” Gregory commented.

Chennaiyin’s opponents Manang Marshyangdi will be hoping to register their first point in Group E of the AFC Cup. The Nepalese side lost their first fixture against Abahani Dhaka and thus cannot afford another defeat so early in the competition.

Kick-off time: 7.30 PM, 17th April

Venue: The Arena Stadium, Ahmedabad