MARGAO: Eight times champions East Bengal have put the Dempo setback behind and are prepared for the battle against upbeat Royal Wahingdoh FC in their Group A league encounter of 36th Federation Cup Championship at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda on Wednesday at 7 p.m.
East Bengal coach Armando Colaco, a great motivator, who powered Dempo Sports Club to win five I-League crowns will use his famed managerial skills as East Bengal seek to regain their glory.
Nigerian Duo Ranty Martins and Dudu Omagbemi will spearhead the attack while Mehatab Hossain has shown solidity in the middle and has settled in well with Lalrindika Ralte, Milan Susak and Cavin Lobo.
The back four will see Arnab Mondal, Dipak Kumar Mondal, Raju Gaikwad and Leonidas Bertos.
Colaco hinted he may wring some changes in the first 11 squad and has full faith that his team will emerge winner against Royal Wahingdoh FC.
“The game is very important and I am confident that the boys will rise to the occasion and it a must win situation for us if we want to keep the hopes alive,” said Colaco, who looks forward to a New Year gift.
“We have to build on the basics and try to get a good result. Royal Wahindoh have been playing some good football and they are good fighters. There is no hiding from the fact that it will be difficult game. The real test of character for East Bengal begins now,” he added.
On the pitch, Royal Wahingdoh’s Jackichand Singh and Liberian Bekay Bawar will share the attacking duties while Trinidad and Tobago Densil Theobald and Reagan Singh my don the midfield role.
