Chennaiyin FC and Mumbai City FC both come into the 15th game of the Hero Indian Super League on the back of losses. The home side suffered their first loss in three games in New Delhi while Mumbai succumbed to their second defeat, at home against NorthEast United FC. Mumbai’s loss was the more unexpected as they had put five goals past state rivals Pune City FC in their backyard a week earlier.

Tomorrow’s encounter thus affords both teams the chance to bounce back. Mumbai are good going forward while the Chennai defence is one of the strongest in the league. The visitors are likely to be reinforced by the presence of Nicolas Anelka and the return of Syed Rahim Nabi from injury. It will thus be an interesting battle between the Mumbai attack and the Chennai defence.

Mikael Silvestre vs Subhash Singh

The decorated Frenchman and former Arsenal and Manchester United alumnus has been a rock at the centre of the Chennai defence, marshalling his resources with consummate ease. His tactical awareness is still superb and he's not afraid to put in the tackles. He’s also a threat in the air from set-pieces. Up against him will be young Mumbai striker Subhash Singh who is capable of troubling the defence with his pace and trickery. The diminutive Manupiri showcased his marksmanship with a superb goal against Pune. He will want to do an encore against the southerners.

Elano Blumer vs Manuel Friedrich

The youngest of all the marquee players, Elano has shown his immense quality in the ISL. Having scored in all three games he's played in so far, the former Manchester City man will be looking to add a fourth goal in as many matches. Central defender Manuel Friedrich will be in charge of stopping the Brazilian, more so as he will miss Czech centre-back Pavel Čmovš who collected two yellow cards in the previous match. The German’s positioning, strength and leadership will be vital for the Mumbai defence in order to nip Elano’s menace in the bud.

Bernard Mendy vs André Moritz

The former Hull city defender scored one of the goals of the tournament with that spectacular overhead kick past David James. He was however found wanting when Chennai let in four goals against Delhi Dynamos FC. The tough tackling Frenchman will not want a repeat of that when he faces off against tournament joint top scorer André Moritz who bagged an impeccable hat-trick against Pune. The indisposed Brazilian was pulled out at half-time in his previous outing but he could well be fit and back to his best tomorrow.

Players to watch

Bojan Djordjic - The Chennai captain has a huge role to play for his team. As the main playmaker for the side, the Swede has not disappointed with his excellent ball control and distribution. Besides, his leadership skills are important to the Chennai cause. He will want to play a more influential role tomorrow and perhaps get onto the score sheet too.

Nicolas Anelka - The celebrated French striker, who missed his team’s first three matches due to suspension, could make his much awaited appearance in the ISL tomorrow. His presence will add a new dimension to the Mumbai attack. If Anelka hits the ground running, the rival defence will have their hands full in trying to stop Mumbai from running riot.

Team Speak

Vivek Nagul (Chennaiyin FC assistant coach): The team is well equipped to deal with Anelka. The defence is strong enough to tackle the situation.

Peter Reid (Mumbai City FC manager): We know it is a difficult game. We are playing against some very good players. Elano is amazing in dead ball situations.