Abahani-MSC grudge tie today

Dhaka Mohamme-dan SC will be looking for their first win against Dhaka Abahani in the Bangladesh League when the arch-foes face off at the Bangabandhu National Stadium at 5:00 pm today. Satellite channel Ntv will telecast the match live from the venue.
Mohammedan badly need to win the game to stay in the title race as the traditional black and white outfit are seven points behind their bitter rivals, although they have played a game less. In the last two editions of the professional league, Mohammedan and Abahani faced each other four times, Abahani won two games and the remaining two were drawn.
Abahani have maximum 33 points from the 11 matches. A win in today’s match will put them firmly on track for their hat-trick of the titles. On the other hand, Mohammedan, who drew with Sheikh Russell and Beanibazar, have earned 26 points from 10 matches. Abahani will finish their first phase today while Mohammedan will complete their first phase on 24 March against Chittagong Mohammedan.
The Ghanaian trio of Abahani – defender Samad Yousif and forwards Sheriff Deen Mohammed and Awudu Ibrahim – were focused on their duties and knew the club depends a lot on them in its bid for the league trophy.
Hardworking Uzzal and crafty Shahed will marshal the midfield and defender Shujon and skipper-goalkeeper Biplob are the names Abahani will look to excel in the game. Former skipper Joy is out of the squad as he is suspended for disciplinary reasons.
Mohammedan’s Nigerian force comprising Alamu Bukola forward Olalekan, midfielder Emeka Christian and defender Emmanuel Dammi looked charged up on the eve of the crucial tie. Nasir and Wali Faisal, the two wily wing-backs, will be tormenting the opposition defence. Skipper Aminul will be their man under the bar.
The match will see a fascinating duel between the national forward duo – Emily and Enamul. But Emily was suffering from fever on Thursday and is doubtful for the match. However, Mohammedan were hopeful of including Emily in the playing eleven. Enamul also looked fit during the practice session.
Abahnai coach Amalesh Sen asked his players to look forward. ‘The key point is to remain focused on the task at hand, we have to play our normal game, I have asked the players not to try anything ambitious,’ said the veteran coach.
‘The players understand the importance of the match, it is stressful and at the same time requires efficiency, Abahani will go for a win to make the path of retaining the title easier,’ said Amalesh.
Mohammedan coach Maruful Huq was expecting his team will fire on all cylinders when it is most required. ‘We have played ten matches but only two or three of them were up to the mark, the time has arrived to shrug off all the rustiness, Mohammedan have the capability to beat Abahani and the team is eager to achieve it,’ he said.
Maruf said uitlising the opportunities will be the key factor. ‘In the past I have seen the team pay the penalty of squandering the chances, I have asked my boys to keep cool, temperament plays a big role in crunch matches and I don’t want to lose the match, Mohammedan will take the field to win and will do it,’ said Maruf.

Courtesy of NewAgebd