East Bengal and Chennaiyin in Survival Battle for AIFF Super Cup

In a high-stakes encounter, East Bengal FC (EBFC) prepares to battle Chennaiyin FC (CFC) on Tuesday, with both teams vying to keep their AIFF Super Cup dreams afloat. East Bengal, coming off a draw against Dempo, must secure a win to remain in contention for a semi-final berth, according to the official Indian Super League (ISL) website.

Historically, Chennaiyin has the upper hand, winning three out of the ten prior clashes against East Bengal’s two. They enter the match with confidence, following a decisive 3-0 triumph in February during the ISL season. Under the guidance of new head coach Clifford Miranda, Chennaiyin fields an all-Indian squad eager to make an impact against East Bengal, a team looking to recreate their 2024 success.

Coach Miranda, reflecting on their opening match against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, praised his players for their outstanding attitude and readiness to endure challenges on the field, quoted from the ISL website. Meanwhile, East Bengal, who conceded a late lead to Dempo, must rectify lapses as they face a do-or-die scenario before potentially determined Friday's Kolkata derby against Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

The outcome of this showdown is pivotal; a defeat would signal the end of the campaign for Chennaiyin, while for East Bengal, failure to triumph risks disqualification even before the fiercely anticipated derby commences.