Chennaiyin FC lock horns with Hyderabad FC

GUWAHATI: Chennaiyin FC will be aiming to begin their new campaign under former coach Owen Coyle with a victory as they gear up to lock horns against Hyderabad FC in their campaigner opener of 132nd Durand Cup at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, here on Thursday. "The Durand Cup is a famous and renowned tournament which holds great prestige. Obviously, it comes quickly in the pre-season, but it provides an opportunity to get to know the players, find our rhythm, and give our very best. It is a great competition that allows us to play competitively and give our all, as we always do. We're truly excited about the upcoming competition," said coach Coyle on the significance of the tournament, in a media release.

Chennaiyin FC have been drawn alongside ISL outfit Hyderabad FC, I-League side Delhi FC and Nepal-based Tribhuwan Army.

Coyle thinks that the group will test his team and also help the players get the minutes they need, giving him an idea to look and see what the team has done and where they need to improve.

"I don't play to draw games, I play to win games. That is how my teams play and that is how we will play this season, starting in this cup competition. Hyderabad will be tough opponents as they have already played the game that they drew. So we know that if we can go and certainly look to win that game, it gives us a very good foothold in the group for trying to progress to reach the quarter-finals," he said. IANS

Also Read: National Games’ mascot 'MOGA' launched in Goa

Also Watch: