If there is any fixture that encapsulates the word rivalry in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL), then arguably, it has to be the contest between Chennaiyin FC and FC Goa. Over the years, the two teams have produced some excellent matches that have had guaranteed high-octane footballing action on the pitch.

Being the most contested fixture in Hero ISL history with 21 matches being played between the two, the Gaurs have clinched 11 wins compared to the eight wins of Chennaiyin FC, with only two of the 21 matches ending in draws.

To top it all off, this is also the highest scoring fixture in the Hero ISL with 79 goals being scored. The Gaurs’ tally of 42 goals against the Marina Machans is the most that they have netted against any side in the Hero ISL. Inversely, Chennaiyin FC too have scored the maximum number of goals (37) against the Goan club. Such has been the goalscoring streak in this contest that there has not been a single goalless game when the two sides shared the field together.

Season

Matches

FCG Wins

Draws

CFC Wins

FCG Goals

CFC Goals

2014

2

1

0

1

4

3

2015

3

1

0

2

4

7

2016

2

1

0

1

5

6

2017-18

4

1

1

2

4

7

2018-19

2

2

0

0

4

1

2019-20

4

3

0

1

12

9

2020-21

2

0

1

1

3

4

2021-22

2

2

0

0

6

0

Overall

21

11

2

8

42

37

In the previous meeting in the 2022-23 season, FC Goa beat Chennaiyin FC 5-0, the highest margin of win recorded in this fixture as they completed the league double over Chennaiyin, winning both the matches against the Marina Machans with an aggregate score of 6-0. While the Chennai-based side might hold the trump card with their Hero ISL 2015 final win over FC Goa, the Gaurs have emerged superior in this fixture, given by the fact that, Chennaiyin FC have only managed to beat the Gaurs twice in the last 10 matches of all competitions, with Goa winning 7 of those 10 games.

However, the two sides have been given a fresh look with a new head coach and a complete squad overhaul along with the reunion of their supporters at their respective home turf.

In Thomas Brdaric and Carlos Pena, Chennaiyin FC and FC Goa, respectively, will want to outweigh each other with their distinct philosophies of football. With both sides having tasted success in their opening matches, their playing style will be put to test and both coaches will want to settle their head-to-head record. With the new season already underway, this fixture will stand right at the top for both teams given the history behind it and with fans back in the stands, it will indefinitely add to the spice of an already action-packed fixture.