Chennaiyin FC Triumphs Over East Bengal in ISL Thriller
Chennaiyin FC Secures First ISL Win of the Season
Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India] - On November 7, Chennaiyin FC celebrated their inaugural victory of the 2026-27 Indian Super League (ISL) season, delivering a stunning performance against the reigning champions, East Bengal FC, with a score of 5-3 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai.
As per a statement, Brison Fernandes made a significant impact by scoring two goals within the first 18 minutes, establishing an early lead for the home team. Ramon Tanque also contributed by converting a penalty in the first half. Following the break, Irfan Yadwad added two more goals, showcasing a powerful offensive display, while East Bengal's first loss of the season came despite efforts from Ake Loba, Dani Ramírez, and David Lalhlansanga.
Chennaiyin started the match with intensity, as Fernandes netted the opening goal just four minutes in, thanks to an assist from Yadwad. He then doubled his tally in the 18th minute with a superb finish that left goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Gill with no chance, putting the hosts ahead 2-0.
East Bengal responded in the 29th minute when Loba scored with a right-footed shot. However, Chennaiyin quickly regained their two-goal lead just before halftime, as Tanque successfully converted a penalty in the 41st minute, making it 3-1.
In the second half, East Bengal narrowed the gap early on after a handball by Muhammed Saheef led to a penalty. Ramírez stepped up and scored from the spot in the 47th minute, reigniting East Bengal's hopes.
Yet, Chennaiyin restored their two-goal cushion just before the hour mark, with Yadwad scoring again. He completed his brace in the 67th minute, finishing off a setup from Tanque to extend the lead to 5-2, solidifying Chennaiyin's dominance in the match.
East Bengal continued to fight back and managed to score a late goal through Lalhlansanga during stoppage time, assisted by Hardik Bhatt. Nevertheless, Chennaiyin held firm to secure a memorable 5-3 victory, earning their first three points of the season.
This result was a notable setback for East Bengal, who had previously conceded only one goal in their ISL campaign. Meanwhile, Chennaiyin aims to maintain their attacking momentum as they progress in the season, while East Bengal and their head coach Antonio Lopez Habas will look to regroup after this defeat.