Double injury blow for Chennaiyin ahead of its opener against Hyderabad

CHENNAI: Chennaiyin FC has suffered a jolt even before its first kick of the ball in the Indian Super League 2021-22 season in Goa as the two-time champion awaits the fitness status of Brazilian playmaker Rafael Crivellaro.

Chennaiyin will be without the services of Crivellaro and central midfielder Germanpreet Singh for its ISL Season 8 opener against Hyderabad FC at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim on Tuesday, due to injuries to the duo. CFC assistant coach Sabir Pasha had said last week that Crivellaro was recovering from a muscle problem, but head coach Bozidar Bandovic on Monday stated that the 32-year-old “is in some pain”.

“It is not only Rafa [who is unavailable] but also German. He (Rafa) tried [to train] this week after a month’s break. He tried two days ago, but walked off from practice. He couldn’t do it. The medical staff are trying [their best] to monitor the situation and find out what the problem is,” said Bandovic on the eve of the Chennaiyin-Hyderabad clash.

“He (Rafa) is an important player for us. He did very good work in the first few weeks. But now, he has pain, which is a problem we have to resolve. German has a little bit of pain, but will be ready for the next game. It is nothing serious,” added Bandovic.

Despite the absence of Crivellaro, CFC would hope to make a positive start to the eighth edition of the ISL. But, the Anirudh Thapa-led team will have its task cut out against HFC, which did the double over its southern rival in the previous season.

“We are at the level that is required to play. At the moment, the most important game is the first one. Once it is over, we can think about the next ones. We know Hyderabad and have seen its games [from last season]. There are no secrets and we are prepared [for the match],” said Bandovic.

Mumbai City FC 3 (I Angulo 33(P) & 36, Y Catatau 76) bt FC Goa 0