New Delhi: Ivorian Mechac Koffi’s first half strike was enough for Churchill Brothers to beat reigning champions Aizawl FC 1-0 in an I-League match in Margao on Tuesday.
It was Churchill’s fifth win in six games. The striker netted in the 21st minute to secure three points for the hosts, pulling them level on 16 points with sixth-placed Aizawl after 12 matches. Churchill are just behind Aizawl due to their inferior goal difference (-5 compared to Aizawl 1).
The deadlock was broken when an unmarked Koffi scored from close range cross, directing a cross from the left into the net after sneaking in between Aizawl’s two central defenders.
Chennai host Bagan
In Coimbatore, a rejuvenated Mohun Bagan will hope to collect three points against relegation-threatened Chennai City FC on Wednesday.
Mohun Bagan have won two of their last three matches to be fourth with 20 points from 12 matches, seven behind leaders Neroca FC with two games in hand. Chennai are ninth with 13 from 11 matches in the 10-team league. Chennai won the first leg in Kolkata 1-2, ending Sanjoy Sen’s three-year tenure as Bagan coach. His deputy Sankarlal Chakraborty took charge thereafter.
Minerva face Lajong
Hosts Minerva Punjab FC will take on Shillong Lajong FC in Panchkula on Wednesday. Lajong are fifth with 17 points from 14 matches. Minerva are second with 26 points after 12 outings. They won the first leg encounter in Shillong 1-0.
