Fresh from their comeback win over Al Arabi in the AFC Champions League Two qualifying play-off, East Bengal now turn their attention to the Durand Cup quarterfinals, where they face a disciplined Indian Army Football Team with a place in the last-four at stake, on Sunday. The Antonio López Habas’ men will now look to carry that momentum into the Durand Cup knockout phase. The reigning Indian Super League champions go into the clash high on confidence after overturning an early deficit against Al Arabi to seal their place in the AFC Champions League Two stage with a thumping 4-1 win on Wednesday.
Habas’ side have shown plenty of attacking firepower, while Mohammed Rashid and Dani Ramírez offer creativity in midfield and between the lines. Anwar Ali’s presence at the back will also be important against an Indian Army side that topped Group B with perfect nine points. Indian Army FT coach Antony Ramesh has made it clear that his side will respect East Bengal’s quality but will not be overawed by the occasion. SC Delhi topped Group C with three wins from three, with Brazilian forward Rodriguinho emerging as one of the tournament’s leading scorers with six goals. Forward Midul Doley has been central to their run, scoring three goals, including a hat-trick against TRAU FC.
