Hindustan Times (Amritsar)

GEARED UP FOR FINAL FLOURISH

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As former champions Chennaiyin FC get ready to face ISL debutants Bengaluru FC in the final, here’s a look at how the two teams stand ahead of the summit clash

PLAYERS TO WATCH OUT FOR CHENNAIYIN FC Jeje Lalpekhlua

Jeje Lalpekhlua ended his six-game goal drought with a brace against FC Goa in the second leg of Chennaiyin FC’s semi-final win on Tuesday. The Mizo forward has been instrument­al to the club’s campaign and leads their goal-scoring charts with nine strikes in 19 appearance­s.

Henrique Sereno

Chennaiyin FC skipper Henrique Sereno has been the backbone of what has been a defensivel­y discipline­d campaign. Part of the ATK side that won the ISL title last season, Sereno has provided a major boost to Chennaiyin this term.

Raphael Augusto

Part of the Chennaiyin side that had won the ISL title in 2015, Raphael Augusto is in his third season at the club. The Brazilian midfielder’s creativity is key to making the Chennaiyin attack tick.

BENGALURU FC Sunil Chhetri

Sunil Chhetri has delivered time and again for Bengaluru FC during his five seasons at the club. At 33, with 13 goals and two assists, he has been a vital cog in Bengaluru’s wheel.

Miku

Venezuelan forward Miku has been crucial to Bengaluru FC’s run with 14 goals from 19 games. Because of his high work rate, as well as his ability to drop deep, he can create space for teammates in the final third.

Dimas Delgado

Bengaluru FC’s midfield engine Dimas Delgado has quietly gone about his business. An intelligen­t passer, Delgado has combined well with Eric Paartalu to provide solidity and act as a shield in front of defence. The Spaniard also doesn’t shy away from moving forward to help attack.

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