Inter Kashi FC secured a valuable 2-1 away victory over Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League 2025–26, with Alfred Moya’s clinical second-half brace proving decisive at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai on Tuesday.
Despite a late consolation goal from Daniel Chima Chukwu, the visitors held on to claim their second win of the season and move up to eighth in the standings.
For Chennaiyin FC, the result marked another frustrating outing, as they remained in 11th place with five points from six matches, continuing their struggle to convert possession into results.
Tactical caution defines the first half
Both teams began the contest cautiously, focusing on structure and defensive discipline in the early exchanges. Chennaiyin FC enjoyed greater control of possession, with Mohammed Ali Bemammer and Alberto Noguera orchestrating play from midfield.
However, despite their dominance on the ball, the hosts found it difficult to penetrate Inter Kashi’s organised defensive setup. The visitors maintained compact lines, protecting central areas and forcing Chennaiyin to rely on speculative long-range efforts that failed to test goalkeeper Shubham Dhas.
Inter Kashi, meanwhile, looked to threaten on the counter. Rohit Danu was particularly lively down the left flank, delivering a couple of dangerous crosses into the box, though Chennaiyin’s defence dealt with them effectively.
Photo: R. Parthibhan / Focus Sports / ISL
The closest either side came in the first half was during stoppage time, when Inter Kashi nearly broke the deadlock from a set piece. Wayne Vaz’s initial effort was blocked, his follow-up saved by Mohammad Nawaz, and Rohit Danu’s chipped attempt was cleared off the line by Laldinliana in a dramatic sequence.
Despite the intensity, the first half ended goalless, with both teams struggling to find the final breakthrough.
Moya strikes immediately after restart
The match took a decisive turn within moments of the second half kickoff. Inter Kashi capitalised on a lapse in Chennaiyin’s defensive organisation to open the scoring in the 46th minute. Rohit Danu once again played a key role, delivering a cross from the left that was controlled by Sergio Llamas. Bemammer failed to clear the danger, and the loose ball fell to Alfred Moya, who calmly slotted it past Nawaz to give the visitors the lead.
The goal shifted momentum in Inter Kashi’s favour, forcing Chennaiyin to chase the game and leaving spaces at the back.
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Inter Kashi doubled their advantage in the 54th minute, once again punishing Chennaiyin for defensive lapses.
Moya drove into the box with purpose, but a lack of communication between Noguera and the defensive line allowed him to remain unchallenged. Seizing the opportunity, the forward finished with precision to complete his brace and put Inter Kashi firmly in control.
The second goal highlighted Chennaiyin’s defensive vulnerabilities—moments of hesitation and miscommunication that proved decisive. Trailing by two goals, Chennaiyin FC increased their attacking intensity. Head coach Clifford Miranda introduced fresh legs in an attempt to inject urgency into the attack.
The hosts began to look more threatening, with Faroukh Chaudhary coming closest to scoring after a strong individual run, only to be denied by a sharp save from Shubham. Despite their efforts, Chennaiyin continued to struggle in the final third. Their build-up play was structured, but the lack of clinical finishing prevented them from mounting a serious comeback.
Late goal comes too late
Chennaiyin’s persistence eventually paid off deep into stoppage time. A cross from Noguera caused confusion in the Inter Kashi defence, and a half-clearance looped into the path of Daniel Chima Chukwu. The striker reacted quickly, firing the ball past the goalkeeper to reduce the deficit in the 90+5th minute. However, the goal came too late to alter the outcome, as Inter Kashi held on to secure all three points.
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Alfred Moya’s performance was the defining factor in the match. His positioning, composure, and ability to capitalise on defensive errors made the difference in a tightly contested game. Inter Kashi’s approach under Antonio López Habas was clear—remain compact, absorb pressure, and exploit transitions. While they did not dominate possession, their efficiency in key moments proved decisive.
Chennaiyin’s ongoing concerns
For Chennaiyin FC, the defeat underscores ongoing issues in both defence and attack. While they controlled possession for large periods, their inability to convert that control into goals continues to hinder their progress. Defensive lapses at crucial moments further compounded their problems, allowing Inter Kashi to take advantage.
A significant result in the standings
The victory lifts Inter Kashi to eighth place with eight points, providing momentum as the season progresses. For Chennaiyin, the need for improvement is urgent if they are to climb out of the lower half of the table.
Ultimately, the match was decided by moments two defensive errors and a clinical forward who capitalised on them. Alfred Moya’s brace ensured Inter Kashi made the most of their opportunities, while Chennaiyin’s late surge proved insufficient.
In a league where margins are increasingly fine, Inter Kashi demonstrated the value of efficiency. Chennaiyin, meanwhile, were left to reflect on what might have been.
