ISL: Goals a concern for Chennaiyin FC and Kerala Blasters ahead of Southern derby
Chennaiyin FC and Kerala Blasters FC managers Clifford Miranda and Ashley Westwood flagged low scoring as a problem on the eve of their Indian Super League Southern derby at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Saturday. Both coaches addressed their teams' early-season attacking frailties in pre-match comments.
After three matches apiece, Chennaiyin lie 12th with one point while Kerala Blasters are sixth with four; Chennaiyin have scored just once and Kerala Blasters three times so far. The differing goal returns underline the attacking concerns each coach discussed ahead of the fixture.
Chennaiyin head coach Clifford Miranda highlighted the club's creative option while warning about finishing. "I think we have the best No. 10 in the league in Madih Talal… however, as far as the team’s attacking is concerned, it’s a worry because goals win you matches," Miranda said on the eve of Saturday’s game at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. He made the remarks while previewing the Southern derby.
Kerala Blasters manager Ashley Westwood outlined his view on his side’s defensive solidity and chance creation. "We’ve kept two clean sheets, so that would say we’ve got a very good defence. From a coach’s perspective, to keep creating chances is pleasing. You can’t guarantee that people put them in the back of the net. Just the final pass, decision, and finish were not quite there," Westwood said during a virtual interaction. He delivered those comments in the club's pre-match media exchange.
Westwood also reflected on Chennaiyin’s recent results, saying: "On paper, they’ve had a tough start, but they’ve deserved more points than what they’ve got." Chennaiyin's previous outing ended in a 0–1 defeat to Mohun Bagan Super Giant. Miranda confirmed that Nuno Reis remains a doubt for this Southern derby while D. Vignesh, Glan Martins and Maheson Singh are not yet ready to return.
The coaches' remarks were reported on October 30, 2026, ahead of the Southern derby scheduled for Saturday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
