EB face Minerva test

Tribune News Service

Panchkula, March 2 

With an eye on the title, East Bengal will take on Minerva Punjab FC in a crucial I-League match at Tau Devi Lal Stadium here on Sunday. 

The game holds a lot of importance for the visitors as a win would push them closer towards realising a long-awaited I-League title dream, which looks possible after Churchill Brothers defeated table toppers Chennai City FC 3-2 on Friday.

East Bengal have 36 points from 18 games so far and win on Sunday will ensure that they are just one point behind Chennai City FC, taking the championship fight to the final day.  

Minerva Punjab FC are currently-placed ninth in the points table with 17 points from as many games.

“We are more eager to win now as we have a realistic chance to win the championship. This match is very important for us. Our team is playing very good and improving every day,” said East Bengal’s Coach Alejandro Menendez. 

For the defending champions, except the last win against Neroca FC, there’s not much that they can rejoice about. Minerva Punjab FC have scored only nine goals this season and conceded 15.

“We are pretty confident about tomorrow’s game. We will surely eye three points. We have been combining well in practice sessions and new players will be given chance in the team. They are with us since long and I guess they deserve a chance to play in this championship. We will try to put everything in place against East Bengal,” said Minerva coach Sachin Badadhe.