Bashundhara Kings will be looking to knock the wind out of ATK Mohun Bagan‘s sails when the two meet for their last group game at the AFC Cup on Tuesday.
Introduction
The green and maroon outfit can etch their name in the history books at the National Stadium by becoming the first side from the Indian Super League to reach the knockout stages of the AFC Cup. (Bengaluru FC’s heroics at the continental stage came when they were still a part of the I-League).
Preview
Bashundhara Kings’ knockout hopes suffered a big blow when they couldn’t capitalise on their chances against Bengaluru, being held by the Blues at a goalless draw.
High-flying ATK Mohun Bagan, on the other hand, cemented their position at the top of the table after a spirited second-half performance against Maziya S&RC after falling behind before the break.
Liston Colaco, Roy Krishna, and Manvir Singh all found the back of the net after some clever tactical tweaks by Antonio Lopez Habas during the break. A draw will be enough for them to win the group on Tuesday.
Team News
Hugo Boumous will miss the game owing to suspension after having picked up yellow cards in consecutive games. Deepak Tangri is also a doubt after suffering a knock against Maziya. The Mariners have no other injury concerns.
Bashundhara Kings manager Óscar Bruzón will have a fully fit side at his disposal.
Predicted Line-ups
Bashundhara Kings: Anisur Rahman (GK), Tariq Kazi, Topu Barman(C), Khaled Shafei, Bishwanath Ghosh, Miah Zoni, Jonathan Fernandes, Ahamed Biplo, Mahbubur Rahman, Robson Robinho, Raul Becerra,
ATK Mohun Bagan: Amrinder Singh(GK), Subhasish Bose, Carl McHugh, Pritam Kotal, Ashutosh Mehta, Lenny Rodrigues, Sk. Sahil, Liston Colaco, Manvir Singh, David Williams, Roy Krishna (C).
Opinion
ATK Mohun Bagan will definitely feel the absence of Hugo Boumous. The French-Moroccan has been the catalyst of most of their goals, combining effortlessly with all their forwards. Bashundhara faces an uphill task regardless, as nothing but full 3 points can only salvage their campaign.
In the end, Habas’ team just seems to have enough discipline to pull off a hard-fought draw, if nothing more. However, Bashundhara is a side full of surprises with individuals who can turn games around single-handedly. Take nothing out of account when you sit down to watch this mouthwatering showdown on Tuesday.
Match Date – 24th August 2021 (Tuesday)
Time – 16:30 IST
Venue – National Stadium, Male, Maldives
How to watch – Star Sports Network
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