Mohun Bagan gear up for crucial clash against Abahani Limited Dhaka in AFC Cup showdown

Amidst an intense preseason and a changed team dynamic, Mohun Bagan Super Giant is poised for a testing encounter against the in-form Abahani Limited Dhaka on Tuesday, August 22, eyeing a coveted spot in the AFC Cup South Zone group stage.

The Mariners, currently navigating a packed preseason including stints in the Durand Cup and the Calcutta Football League Premier Division, are conscious of the high stakes. Bagan's significant investments in assembling a top-tier team this season underscore the importance of the AFC Cup for the Sanjiv Goenka-owned club.

While Mohun Bagan showcased a commendable performance in their 5-0 victory over Bangladesh Army FT in the Durand Cup opener, their overall form has raised eyebrows. "We tried to give our best in every match. We'll see tomorrow, and then will prepare for the Durand Cup," commented Juan Ferrando, the team's coach.

Despite securing high-profile foreign signings, the team's performance balance remains elusive. Jason Cummings, an Australian A-League victor with 2022 World Cup experience, hasn't been at his best upfront. However, Anwar Ali's exceptional form, especially his crucial goals that led the team to a 3-1 win over Machhindra in the AFC Cup playoff, has been a silver lining.

Ferrando elucidated the mounting pressure on the team by saying, "Tomorrow, it's like a final. We try to do everything we can, give 100 percent." He further expressed the challenges posed by the team's tight schedule and emphasized the importance of the upcoming match.

Last season, Mohun Bagan clinched a comfortable 3-1 win against the Mario Lemos-led side. However, Dhaka has come into this encounter riding on a wave of confidence, having secured four successive wins, including their recent triumph over Club Eagles of Maldives.

Commenting on the anticipated face-off, Ferrando noted the dynamics have changed since their last meeting, and it's crucial to identify the best lineup. "It's most important to be ready for tomorrow's match and try to find the best lineup," he stated.

Abahani's coach, Lemos, recognizing the prowess of Mohun Bagan, expressed his team's determination to make the match more competitive than their previous encounter. "Our approach needs to be organised and focused. We must fight, be willing to endure and sacrifice, and then capitalise on our chances," he asserted. He further emphasized the team's ease and confidence coming into Kolkata, ready to face the challenge without added pressure.