Kings face uphill task
Having kept their sights on a knockout berth, Bangladesh Premier League champions Bashundhara Kings are hoping for a win over Gokulam Kerala while hoping that ATK Mohun Bagan slip up against Maziya S&RC in the final-day Group D fixtures of the AFC Cup at the Salt Lake Stadium today.
All four teams have three points each after two matches and have a chance to advance to the inter-zonal semifinals, but Kings are bottom of the table due to a poor goal-difference.
ATK Mohun Bagan are on top, followed by Gokulam Kerala, Maziya and Bashundhara Kings. If more than one team finish with equal points, the head-to-head record will be considered first before goals difference and goals scored among teams, to determine the group winners.
Bashundhara Kings have no option but to beat Gokulam Kerala to keep their path open and expect ATK Mohun Bagan do not beat Maziya in the day's second match.
It is going to be difficult for Kings to beat Gokulam Kerala, especially following a 4-0 defeat against Mohun Bagan. Coach Oscar Bruzon is trying to boost the morale of the players ahead of the match against the I-league champions.
"Mental preparation is important after a big defeat. The mood in the team was low until yesterday [Sunday]. We have analysed what Gokulam Kerala can do and will work towards finding a way to defeat them," Bruzon was quoted as saying on the AFC website.
Comments