ISL 2018-19, ATK 2-1 Chennaiyin FC: 5 talking points

#3 Defenders let Chennaiyin FC down once again

Calderon hasn't been in the best of forms this season (Image Courtesy: ISL)

Chennaiyin FC have produced some horrible defending since the start of the season. They have lost four matches and one of the major reason for it certainly is their defending.

In their match against NorthEast United FC, Chennaiyin FC was leading 3-1 in the first half. Any team, with this scoreline, should concentrate more on defending. Chennaiyin FC didn’t. They conceded two quick goals within the first half and another in the second to lose the match.

One of the main reason behind this capitulation is the off-form of Eli Sabia and Inigo Calderon. The latter took more responsibility in the defence last year and made an impact in Chennaiyin FC’s title-winning campaign. But this year, he hasn’t found the rhythm yet.

Before Uche’s goal, Calderon moved on the right side during the goal-kick. That created acres of space in the central defence and let alone Uche, any player would’ve scored that goal.

Chennaiyin FC defenders were not in their position many times during the match, which left a hole in their defence.

Moreover, there were no central defenders who would block the move as Raphale Augusto and Anirudh Thapa was playing more on the opponent’s half. Eli Sabia was wasteful throughout the match.

To bring success, Chennaiyin FC need more defensive solidity.