CHENNAI: Chennaiyin FC fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat to Mumbai City FC in their Indian Super League 2026 opener on Wednesday at the Mumbai Football Arena. Lalrinliana Hnamte anchored the midfield, while Irfan Yadwad completed an otherwise new-look attack. Chennaiyin weathered early pressure in a cagey opening, with both sides trading challenges and early bookings in their battle for control. Bemammer and Hnamte were quick to break up Mumbai City’s advances, while Noguera dropped into pockets to knit play together. Out wide, Imran and Irfan held their width as Martin probed the channels, with the backline maintaining shape.

Source: Indian Express February 19, 2026 17:20 UTC