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What's the Story?
Sitting second in the I-League table behind Minerva, Mohun Bagan AC will take on Neroca FC, who are sky high on confidence after their 2-1 win over Chennai City FC. Sony Norde, who is Mohun Bagan's key player, is due to miss the match.
Norde was one of the goalscorers in Mohun Bagan's 5-0 rout of Churchill Brothers earlier this season, but was unfortunately injured. Also injured in that game was midfelder Ansumana Kromah, who scored the first goal versus Churchill.
In case you didn't know...
Sony Norde has represented the Haitian National team at the Youth and Senior levels scoring 2 goals in 27 appearances. He has also played in the Bangladesh Premier League and won the MVP for the season 2013-14, playing for Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi after which he moved to Mohun Bagan AC.
The heart of the matter
Sony Norde has been a key player for Mohun Bagan AC over the years. The Haitian has scored 18 goals in 45 appearances for the club since joining in 2014.
Both Sony Norde and Kromah missed Mohun Bagan's match versus Shillong Lajong, which ended in a 1-1 draw, with Mohun Bagan being down to 10 men. Courtesy the suspension, Kingsley Obumneme will not be playing any part against Neroca FC as Mohun Bagan will be looking for a win on Tuesday.
Sony Norde's absence could also mean a change in formation for the team. The decision to play Kromah still hasn't been taken but the management is optimistic that his injury isn't as serious as Norde's and he will play a part versus Neroca, even if he does not start.
What's Next?
Mohun Bagan have a couple of fixtures to play before they face table toppers Minerva FC on 10th January, which promises to be an exciting encounter. It remains to be seen how manager Sanjoy Sen copes with the absence of Norde.
Author's Take
It is still the beginning of the season and the management at Mohun Bagan should ensure that Norde is 100% fit before he takes the field again. The coach needs to make strategic changes to his side which will face Neroca on Tuesday, if they are looking for the points to keep the gap with the toppers as small as possible.
