ISL: Chennaiyin FC stun Punjab FC with late winner to stay in hunt for playoffs spot

Former champions ride superb strike by Daniel Chima Chukwu to remain distant contenders for a top-six finish

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

Chennaiyin FC registered their first home win in five games as they edged past Punjab FC by a 2-1 margin at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai in an Indian Super League (ISL) clash on Saturday evening. Coming off a morale-boosting win against East Bengal FC, Chennaiyin FC struck first with Wilmar Jordan Gil converting from the spot. Punjab FC retaliated early in the second half with Luka Majcen slotting home the equaliser. However, the hosts left it late when Daniel Chima Chukwu scored the winner in the 84th minute to bag the maximum points.

Despite this win, the Marina Machans, with 24 points from 21 games, are seven behind sixth-placed Mumbai City FC, who have 31 points from 20 games.

Punjab FC started the game with more momentum in their attacks. The visitors were moving the ball with more intensity in the final third. Asmir Suljic got the first opportunity of the match but his eventual effort was wayward as he failed to keep it in target from close range.

A couple of minutes later, Punjab FC had their best opportunity following Chennaiyin FC's throw-in. Ravi Kumar gathered the ball and found Petros Giakoumakis with a long ball. The Greek forward held the ball up and released Mrzljak through on goal from the right flank. The Croatian had a clear look on goal but his shot was not vicious enough to beat Mohammed Nawaz, who was alert to the danger.