Chennaiyin FC began their continental commitments with a 0-0 draw against Colombo FC in the first leg of the AFC Cup play-off at the Race Course International Stadium in Colombo on Wednesday. The Marina Machans defended resolutely throughout the 90 minutes against an attack-minded hosts.

Both the defenses stood tall here in Colombo. All to play for in the second leg in Ahmedabad. See you there! 🙌#COLCHE #CFCinAsia #AFCCup2019 #PoduMachiGoalu pic.twitter.com/tlMbV5luli

— Chennaiyin FC 🏆🏆 (@ChennaiyinFC) March 6, 2019

Head coach Gregory decided to opt for a strong outfit with Eli Sabia and Mailson Alves spearheading the defence, while Raphael Augusto and Anirudh Thapa commanded things in the midfield. Upfront Isaac Vanmalsawma and Jeje Lalpekhlua were responsible for coming up with the goods.

Chances were few and far as the majority of the play was carried out in the midfield. While Chennaiyin would have been hoping to register an away goal, they will be confident of completing the job in the second leg at Ahmedabad in a weeks’ time.

Post the match, Gregory shared his views on the encounter and the performance of his team. “It was a tough game as we had expected. We didn't get the away goal we were hoping for, but we managed to keep a clean sheet. It wasn't an easy pitch to play on as well. It's all to play for in the second leg in a week's time.”