Chennaiyin FC suffered a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Punjab FC in their ISL 2026 clash after a late own-goal decided a tightly fought contest.
The Marina Machans showed defensive resilience early on, with Pritam Kotal making a crucial goal-line clearance and Laldinliana Renthlei producing an important block. Chennaiyin also created several chances through Daniel Chima Chukwu and Alberto Noguera but failed to convert.
Despite sustained attacking intent in the second half, Chennaiyin were left frustrated as Punjab FC snatched victory late to hand the visitors a damaging defeat in the playoff race.