The Chennaiyin FC U-13s have progressed to the final round for a second consecutive season, having qualified in their debut campaign last year with a 100% record in the Chennai zone. Chennaiyin FC kept six clean sheets and conceded just three goals from their eight group games this time around. This means that as things stand, Chennaiyin FC have the joint-best defensive record in the Chennai zone along with FC Madras who have a game in hand. At the other end of the pitch, Chennaiyin FC scored a total of 41 goals with ten different players finding the back of the net. Striker K. Karmugilan top-scoring for Chennaiyin FC with seven goals to his name. At the time of sending this report, Chennaiyin FC are the second-highest goalscorers across all zones in the Hero Sub-Junior League, behind FC Madras who have 49 goals with one game to go.
There were no changes to the Chennaiyin FC starting eleven from their previous outing. Chennaiyin FC began on the front foot and took an early lead after Mohamed Irfan was fouled in the box and S. Varun Kumar converted the spot kick in the eighth minute.
Chennaiyin FC’s lead however was short-lived, as FC Madras equalized two minutes later through their top-scorer Manglenthang Kipgen. A defensive lapse from the Chennaiyin backline leading to the leveller.
There was an early change for Chennaiyin FC in attack as Karmugilan made way for E. Kannan.
FC Madras grew into the game and had a few decent opportunities leading up to half-time. However, the Chennaiyin FC defence stood firm as it finished 1-1 at the break.
The visitors continued to dominate in the second half and took the lead in the 42nd minute. Leonardo Christy giving them the advantage from a well-taken free-kick.
Despite Chennaiyin FC’s best efforts, FC Madras held on to complete the double over Chennaiyin FC and seal top spot in the Chennai zone.
Having bowed out at the group stages of the Hero Sub-Junior League final round last season, the Chennaiyin FC U-13s will be aiming to progress further when they compete against teams from around the country next month in Goa.