Russell face Soccer in the opener
The third edition of the cash-rich Super Cup will get underway from today after a two-year hiatus when treble winners Sheikh Russell take on
Feni Soccer Club in the opening match at 5pm at the Bangabandhu National Stadium.
In the second game of the day at the same venue, defending champions Abahani Limited will clash with Muktijoddha Sangsad from 7pm.
The Bangladesh Football Federation has decided to organise the third Super Cup without foreign players.
Dutch coaches Lodewijk de Kruif and Rene Koster will watch the group stages of the Super Cup so the young players will get the opportunity to prove themselves ahead of the SAFF Championship in September.
The players’ transfer window will open in the middle of August hence the footballers will also get the chance to showcase their talent and secure a hefty paypacket with an interested club.
Sheikh Russell have already sealed three titles this season including the Bangladesh Premier League. They will have the rare opportunity of clinching the quadruple although some players are suffering from different injuries.
On the other hand, Sheikh Jamal failed to attain any silverware this season as they finished second behind Russell in most of the tournaments throughout the season. The Super Cup might be the only trophy which will erase all the dissatisfaction of Jamal.
During the season, holders Abahani were eliminated from the quarter final of the Independence Cup and the Federation Cup and surrendered their BPL title to Russell as they finished third.
Meanwhile, Mohammedan Sporting Club, who clinched the maiden title in 2009 and were the runners up in the second edition two years ago, will rightfully start the upcoming competition as one of the favourite contenders.
Team BJMC, Muktijoddha, Brothers Union and Soccer Club have at different times over the last few days expressed their desire of putting on a good show as they had a good number of local players.
The winner will receive Tk 50 lakh, half the amount of the previous two editions. The runners up will pocket Tk 20 lakh while the six participating teams will be provided Tk 15 lakh each.
Co-sponsors Walton will reward the best player in the tournament with a motorcycle.
-With New Age input
