CHENNAI: Chennaiyin FC (CFC) will take on Kerala Blasters (KBFC) in the much-anticipated southern derby in Kochi on Saturday, with both teams still searching for their first win of the season. While Chennaiyin managed to salvage a point in their last outing against Odisha FC, the Blasters have endured a difficult start, losing all three of their opening matches. Ahead of the clash, CFC head coach Clifford Miranda said he expects more from both his foreign signings and senior Indian players as the team looks to turn performances into results.
“We have 28 players, but foreigners do play a big part. That’s the truth because they bring quality, leadership, charisma and character.
Not that Indian players don’t have these qualities, but foreign players help to further bolster the team,” Miranda said.
“I expect more from our foreign players and also from some of the senior Indian players in the team. In terms of work rate and understanding the game, I demand more from everyone. When I pick the team, I don’t look at nationality or where a player comes from. I just choose the players who can give the best for the team on that particular day.”
Chennaiyin have scored just once in their opening three matches despite creating opportunities. Miranda believes the issue lies in the final third.
“It’s a combination of both decision-making and execution. The final phase is always the most difficult because you get very little time and space,” he said.
“We are doing quite well in the first two phases of the game, but in the final phase we need more composure. We also need more players arriving in the penalty box. Possession is important, but in the end it’s goals that win matches.”
Despite Kerala’s winless start, Miranda expects a stern challenge at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
“If you look at their games, they have played well and were a little unlucky not to get something from those matches. Playing in Kochi is never easy for any team. It’s going to be a very difficult game,” he said.
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