So far, all the four big matches in the league have failed to produce any winners.

Muktijoddha's top notch encounter with star-studded Brothers Union ended in a goalless draw. Abahani also tied Brothers 3-3. Brothers then played another stalemate with holders Mohammedan (1-1) before Abahani shared points with Muktijoddha with a goalless draw.

But stakes will be high in today's game and also the prospect of a win for either side as the two giants will be desperately trying to finish the first part of the double-leg championship on a high.

Although Mohammedan started poorly with a draw against newcomers Sheikh Russell KC, they appear to have put their acts together lately and are sharing the second spot with archrivals Abahani. Each have 13 points from seven matches, two points shy of leaders Brothers Union.

Muktijoddha also began shakily and tasted defeat in their very first game against Victoria. But the Reds are peaking at the right moment. Their collection stands at 12 points from seven outings.

But the task of challenging Mohammedan has been made difficult for the Muktis as four regular players will miss today's match.

Liberian defender Harry, midfielder Tushar and forward Moni are serving bans while Iraqi defender Riyadh is injured. National striker Rokunuzzaman Kanchan too is not hundred percent

"It's a big set back for the team and I'm yet to decide on how to line-up the first eleven," said Mukti-joddha coach Shafiqul Islam Manik.. "I'm also worried with Kanchan because he is not fully fit," Manik added.

His Mohammedan counterpart and former Bangladesh defender Abul Hossain, however has an abundance of talent to choose from.

"Everybody in the team is fit and raring to go," said Abul. We are considering every match as a final and today's game will not be any different. The team is in good shape now. The four Cameroon booters have also gelled nicely. It's now time to see how they some up in a big match like this one," Abul said.

Abul was however concerned with the form of winger Amin Rana who has had some pedestrian performances after looking close to recapturing his best form in the beginning of the season.

"I'm not very impressed with Amin Rana. He looks completely lost. I might replace him with Rony in the first eleven," Abul revealed.

PROBABLE TEAMS

MOHAMMEDAN SC: Nadeem, Basala, Jewel Rana, Faisal, Rony, Kaiser, Olinga, Etigo, Afala, Pappu and Farhad.

MUKTIJODDHA SANGSAD: Aminul, Hasan Al-Mamun, Prodeep, Din Mohammad, Ghansha, Papel, Lajuk, Bidyut, Matiur Munna, Arcadia Toe and Kanchan.