Vasco (Goa): East Bengal make their Indian Super League (ISL) debut on Friday with a game against historic rivals ATK Mohun Bagan at the Tilak Maidan Stadium.
Led by a new head coach in former Liverpool FC legend Robbie Fowler, who takes over a revamped squad, East Bengal will be aiming to open their campaign on a winning note.
They boast a line-up heavy with talented Indian players including Jeje Lalpekhlua, Eugeneson Lyngdoh, and Balwant Singh. Their foreign contingent, spearheaded by captain Dylan Fox alongside experienced stars such as Anthony Pilkington and Jacques Maghoma, will give Fowler confidence as he embraces his second stint as head coach.
The Englishman will, however, have his task cut out against Bagan coach Antonio Lopez Habas, who is into his fourth season in the ISL. Habas isn't short of experience, having won two ISL titles. Mohun Bagan's strong squad depth also means that Habas's side will start as favourites.
The Mariners began their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory against Kerala Blasters and a win against their arch-rivals might just hand them the momentum they need as the season goes on.
IANS
