‘Do-or-die’ for Kings and Odisha
Bangladesh Premier League champions Bashundhara Kings would look to get their AFC Cup campaign back on track when they host Odisha FC of India in their first-ever international club match at the home venue.
The match will get underway at the Bashundhara Kings Arena at 6:00pm.
Having lost their opening match 3-1 away to Maziya S&RC – the first-ever defeat against a Maldivian club for the Bangladeshi giants, Kings know a defeat would diminish their hope of qualifying for the knockout stage for the first time great deal. Coach Oscar Bruzon, at the pre-match press conference, said the team has studied the opposition hard to get the best result in this crucial fixture.
"We have never lost two matches (in AFC Cup). We have never lost at home (in domestic football). So this will be a great opportunity for us to show our reaction," the Spaniard said.
"We had lot of expectations ahead of the Maziya game, but our preparation was not great. Now we are back and we have to give our best. We don't have any excuses now," Bruzon said,
Like Kings, Odisha FC are also coming into the match on the back of a big defeat. They lost their opening match at home against Mohun Bagan 4-0, however, they have since some form following that defeat, with a 2-0 win against Chennaiyin FC in their opening fixture of the Indian Super League before drawing 2-2 against Mumbai City FC last week.
Showing utmost respect to the opposition, Bruzon said that this match would be a do-or-die affair for both teams.
"Odisha are a new club like us. They won the Super Cup last season and made a good start this season. They have a top coach and important players in key positions. I think small aspects can make the difference tomorrow.
"This is a do-or-die affair for both teams because whoever loses this match will have their chances diminished," added Bruzon.
Captain Robson Robinho echoed the coach's sentiment, saying: "It's good that we will be playing at home, in front of our own crowd. We will do everything that we need to do to win this match and stay alive in this competition."
Odisha FC coach Sergio Lobera was excited about the challenge of facing Bashundhara Kings.
"We are excited about this game and are ready for this challenge. We are going to play against a good team. Most of all, we are excited to play in this competition as it means a lot for us as a club to represent not only our club but India as well. Hopefully, we can get a good result," the Spaniard said.