Chennaiyin FC head coach, Marco Materazzi downplayed suggestions that his side had already qualified for the semifinals and called on his team to focus on the task that awaited them at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium. Assistant coach Vivek Nagul had stated earlier in the season that Chennai expected 18 points to be enough, but the team’s think-tank has observed how competitive the league is, and are not taking anything for granted despite having reached that target (they currently sit on 19 points). “Tomorrow is another important game for us because according to me, we still need five or six points to reach the semis and if we win against NorthEast United FC, there is a 70% chance of us being in the semi-finals. We need to focus on the next game.”The former Italian World Cup winner also stated that his team had stepped up to negate the void caused by the absence of marquee star Elano, Gouramangi Singh and Stiven Mendoza“I said before the last game also, we may or may not reach the semis but I have a team. Everybody is hungry to contribute. Against Mumbai City FC, we showed the depth in our squad.”When asked how he managed to retain the composure required to manage the team as well as participate as a player, the ex-Inter Milan star replied, “I am 41 years old now. Of course, I love to play football but I take decisions based on the team’s welfare. If I feel I am needed on the pitch, I play.”Chennaiyin FC’s in form striker, Jeje Lalpekhlua, who also attended the press-conference along with his head coach, has been in superb form over the last couple of matches, putting in eye-catching performances. Earlier in the day, the Mizoram-born forward was voted the ISL ‘Player of the Week’ by fans, and Jeje expressed satisfaction with his form. “I am happy with my recent form but I have to maintain that and maybe even get better with every game. It will be like a home game away from home for me. Some of my friends and family are coming but I am only focused on getting three points tomorrow and extend our lead at the top.”
