Chennaiyin FC will be a step away from their second Hero Indian Super League (ISL) title when they lock horns with a dominant Bengaluru FC side on Saturday in the 2017-18 final. As the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru prepares to host a high-octane southern derby with the two sets of passionate fans thronging the stands for the season’s grand finale, Chennaiyin will be looking to repeat the heroics of 2015 in Goa, where they pushed aside FC Goa on their home turf to win the title. They will also head into the contest safe in the knowledge that they have already beaten the Blues at this venue earlier in the campaign.

Though Bengaluru have been the club to grab eyeballs this season thanks to their scintillating form and consistency, Chennaiyin’s resolute defence and determined attacking unit has also sought our attention over the months. As the former champions get ready to lay hands on their second title in four years, here’s a glance at how they are placed to counter Bengaluru’s solid game plan.

Strengths:

• Chennaiyin’s backline, which includes the likes of captain Henrique Sereno, Mailson Alves, Inigo Calderon, young sensation Jerry Lalrinzuala and goalkeeper Karanjit Singh, has been one of the most difficult to breach with a total of 8 clean sheets, the most by a team this season. Their defenders have also netted six times collectively and have helped them register the most number of tackles (511) in the league.

• The squad features many past Hero ISL winners like Sereno and Bikramjit Singh, who won the title as part of ATK last season. While Alves, Karanjit, Raphael Augusto, Thoi Singh and Jeje Lalpekhlua have already lifted the trophy for Chennaiyin in 2015, which stands the southerners in good stead given the presence of players with know-how about the atmosphere in a final and what it takes to overcome that pressure.

• Chennaiyin do not depend on the services of a few individuals but rather work as a well-oiled unit, which is highlighted by the 11 different players who have found the back of the net for them so far.

Weaknesses:

• Though gifted with an experienced defensive line, Chennaiyin’s attacking line has failed to be consistent this season. Jeje Lalpekhlua has been their main man up front and did take the club to their second final with his brace, however, he experienced a goal drought midseason. Raphael Augusto and Gregory Nelson have been in good form but will be put through a difficult test, when up against a solid opposition defence as well on Saturday.

• Chennaiyin will be playing away from home, in front of a hostile crowd who would do their best to deter the visitor’s confidence. Head coach John Gregory will be looking to draw inspiration from their win there earlier in the season as well as their only other appearance in a Hero ISL final when they beat the Gaurs in front of a vociferous crowd in Goa.

Players to watch:

Defence:

Mailson Alves – A leader at the back, the Brazilian centre-back has been immense for Chennai and will be looking to make it two titles in as many seasons with the Marina Machans. He is also a threat in the opposition box and has netted twice so far.

Midfield: 

Gregory Nelson – The Dutchman has grown in confidence as the season has progressed with a goal and three assists to show for his efforts. He has been Chennai’s most creative player in recent weeks and will look to unlock Bengaluru’s defence in the final.

Attack:

Jeje Lalpekhlua – The Mizo Sniper will be looking to clinch his second Hero ISL trophy in the final after firing a brace in Chennai’s last match. He is their top-scorer this season with nine goals.

Catch the final live 8 pm onwards on the Star Sports network and Hotstar.