‘Confident’ Sporting ready for East Bengal

East Bengal players jubilate after a goal in the Federation Cup

MARGAO: Sporting Clube de Goa are confident they can get something out of their opening encounter against Federation Cup champions East Bengal in a I-League clash at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Sunday.

Sporting met East Bengal in the opening group match of the Federation Cup and managed to hold the eventual champions 1-1. Technical Director Alex Alvares believes his team could have even snatched a win if they had converted the numerous chances that came their way.

“We are ready for East Bengal. We have had a few problems of our own but I believe we have enough talent to get a favourable result. Let’s see what the boys can come up with,” Alvares said.

Sporting Clube have not had a favourable start to their season losing against comparatively weaker sides in all three competitions they have participated so far. Whether it’s the loss against Assam Rifles, ONGC or Sesa FA, Sporting Clube have not been able to get it right.

“We are playing at home, so the advantage should be with us. We will definitely give them a hard time,” Alvares added.

East Bengal, meanwhile, are high on confidence and should be favourites to collect full points from their opening clash. East Bengal had won both of their matches in last season’s I-League. The Kolkata outfit arrived in Goa on Friday with a full-strength side.

Coach Trevor Morgan is expected to field the same squad that he showed faith in the Federation Cup final against Dempo Sports Club. Robin Singh has replaced Gurwinder Singh in the travelling eighteen while Subodh Kumar and Semilen Doungel — who were part of the Federation Cup — have been left out.

The match which kicks-off at 5.30pm will be live on Ten Action Plus.