The Final Round of the I-League Division 2 will kick-off later today in Siliguri and run until April 17 in two phases to be played first in Siliguri (West Bengal) and then Gangtok (Sikkim). Seven teams are taking part with ONGC being last seasons relegated I-League side, while Aizwal FC, United Sikkim FC, Royal Wahingdoh SC, Kalighat Milan Sangha, Mohammedan Sporting Club and Vasco SC qualified for the final round from the 23 teams, three groups preliminary round.
Here the list of complete I-League Division 2: Final Round Fixtures!
But are there any favourites for the two I-League promotion spots?
Honestly it is difficult to say, then seeded ONGC have been involved in very little football in this season so far, the three preliminary round groups were of different strengths and everyone starts from zero again in Siliguri.
The first two/three matches should show which way the journey could go, but with the clubs set to play 12 matches over two legs it could even out and the strongest sides should be able to get through.
If one goes by experience and strength then ONGC, Mohammedan Sporting Club, United Sikkim FC and Vasco SC have an edge over the other sides; then Royal Wahingdoh SC failed miserably in last years final round and for Aizawl FC and Kalighat Milan Sangha it is the first time that they are playing at this national stage.
And to finish off, United Sikkim FC surely have home advantage in the second-leg which will be played at the Paljor Stadium in Gangtok with Siliguri another base that USFC wants to use in the future.
The matches on the opening day are ONGC, Mumbai vs Aizawl FC and United Sikkim FC vs Vasco SC.
