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Key Battles
Stiven Mendoza v John Arne Riise
Mendoza quashed all doubts about his form with a brilliant hat-trick against Kerala. He has got the uncanny ability to time his runs in behind the defense to perfection, and with the likes of Elano behind him, he will keep making those runs, trusting his midfielders to find him.
Riise meanwhile, has been one of the standout defenders in ISL 2015. He has played in an unnatural position at centre-back but has used his wealth of experience to shepherd the likes of Anas Edathodika, Zodingliana Ralte, and Souvik Chakraborty to perfection.
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Riise is aging, so he cannot match Mendoza stride for stride, but as all experienced defenders, the former Liverpool man will have to find a way to stop Mendoza.
Harmanjot Khabra v Florent Malouda
There is absolutely no doubt that Malouda will be Delhi’s prime creative force. He has not scored many goals, but his five assists so far have been instrumental in Delhi’s rise to the upper reaches of the table.
In Len and Gustavo, Malouda has able lieutenants who will keep making the runs. Robin Singh has emphasized that he has loved playing with Malouda, and the former Bengaluru FC striker is in no mood to rest on his laurels.
With Malouda there, the front three need to just time their runs, because Malouda possesses enough quality to hurt Chennaiyin. Tasked with stopping Malouda will be Harmanjot Khabra.
The 26-year-old has been Chennaiyin’s midfield lynchpin, and although he has had disciplinary issues this season, it will be his responsibility to ensure that Malouda does not dictate the game.
Prediction
Chennaiyin need a win desperately, and the home crowd will definitely turn up in full voice. However, Carlos has made Delhi a well-drilled side, who are difficult to score against. Chennaiyin possess the quality, but whether they have the patience to wear down a stubborn defense is a huge question mark.
Score Prediction: Chennaiyin FC 0-1 Delhi Dynamos
