AFC Cup: Chennaiyin get maiden win

Ahmedabad, April 17 

Chennaiyin FC notched up their maiden win in the AFC Cup, beating Nepal’s Manang Marshyangdi Club 2-0 to move to the top of their group here today. 

The former Indian Super League champions had been held to a goalless draw by former I-League champions Minerva Punjab in their opening Group E match here.

After a scoreless opening 45 minutes, Chennaiyin’s overseas players Chris Herd of Australia and Mailson Veriato of Brazil scored early in the second half to secure all three points. Former Aston Villa player Herd’s attempt from 20 yards deflected off Saheed Azeez and looped over goalkeeper Bishal Shrestha into the back of the net in the 51st minute. Two minutes later, the home side doubled their advantage when captain Veriato headed home Anirudh Thapa’s corner from the right.

Minerva held by Abahani

Dhaka: Former I-League champions Minerva Punjab FC were held to a 2-2 draw by Abahani Dhaka here today.

Minerva twice surrendered their lead in the Group E match. Mahmoud Al Amnah (16th minute) and Sreyas Gopalan (42nd) scored for Minerva, while Nabib Newas Jibon (20th) and Sunday Chizoba (48th) were on target for the home side. — PTI