Kolkata, April 9: East Bengal FC will play their sixth fixture of the ongoing Indian Super League against Chennaiyin FC on 11th April from 5:00 PM. This will be the first away match for the Red and Gold this season. East Bengal FC are currently fifth in the table with 11 points, while their opponents Chennaiyin FC sit in eleventh place with 5 points after playing six matches. However, considering the competition, the Red and Gold are fully aware of the challenge and are preparing for the match with full intensity, not taking it lightly.
East Bengal FC completed their final training session at home before heading for their first away match of the Indian Super League 2026 against Chennaiyin FC. The full squad is available with no injury concerns. Both Kevin Sibille and Anwar Ali are fit to play. Rashid trained with the team, but his availability for the match is still uncertain.
As for Jerry Mawihmingthanga, he will not be included in the squad again. The coach mentioned that with the team in good momentum, rotation is not currently in his plans. However, Jerry remains in minds based on his performances in training.
Before the break, East Bengal FC ended their last match with a record 7–0 victory in the Kolkata derby against Mohammedan SC after previously dropping points, and ended the first half of the ongoing ISL with high note. However, during the long break, a few players suffered injuries, including Rashid and Anwar, who were injured on national duty. Both have now recovered. The long break could be an advantage, but at the same time, coach Oscar believes it might affect the team’s momentum. In the pre-match press conference, the coach mentioned that Rashid’s travel situation is still unclear.
The training session was focused on physical work and match practice, with no pressure, just refining the squad. We may see Jeakson Singh in Rashid’s position against Chennaiyin FC on Saturday.
Regarding the opposition, East Bengal FC remain cautious. Although Chennaiyin FC have won only one match and are near the bottom of the table, anything can happen on the pitch. As coach Oscar mentioned, players like Pritam Kotal, Jiteshwor Singh, Irfan Yadwad, and more players like them can be dangerous at any moment. So, the focus remains the same, with intensity and a clear aim to secure points.
In their previous meetings, the stats are quite balanced, with both teams winning twice and one match ending in a draw. At a time when the title race is becoming intense, the Red And Gold Brigade will be aiming to stay on track. Meanwhile, the Marina Machans have had a difficult start to the league, so their hunger for a win will add extra intensity to the battle.
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East Bengal FC Head Coach Oscar Bruzon and player Souvik Chakrabarti full press conference
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