East Bengal prepares for their AFC Challenge League quarterfinal match against FK Arkadag in Turkmenistan. The team faces cultural challenges, including limited internet access and intensified security measures after their arrival on March 9. Coach Oscar Bruzon expresses confidence in his players as they aim for victory after a prior defeat. The team is motivated to secure wins in the Challenge League and Super Cup this season.
East Bengal, also known as the Red-and-Gold Brigade, is currently preparing for their AFC Challenge League quarterfinal match against FK Arkadag in Turkmenistan on March 12. Upon arriving on March 9, the team began facing various challenges including cultural differences and a lack of internet access outside their accommodation. Despite these issues, players are reportedly in good condition and able to train ahead of the match.
The team’s head coach, Oscar Bruzon, expressed confidence in the players’ readiness despite ongoing challenges with injuries during the season. He emphasized the importance of the upcoming match stating, “the team is in the best condition… most of the players are available, eager and excited to be in such an important competition.”
Turkmenistan has a history of authoritarian regimes and significant restrictions on freedoms, notably under its past leaders and the current regime. Internet access remains tightly controlled, with popular social media platforms banned, illustrating the country’s low rankings in political freedoms and civil liberties as per the 2023 Freedom House report.
In the first leg of this quarterfinal on March 5, East Bengal suffered a narrow defeat against Arkadag, losing 1-0 due to a goal from Gurbanov Yazgylych. The upcoming return match will take place at Arkadag Stadium, with the overall winner progressing to the western region semifinal to face either Al-Arabi or Al-Seeb.
Bruzon concluded by underscoring the professionalism of his team, stating, “There’s no need for too many words. We want to let them know what they have to do… So, we will try our best and win this game.” After missing out on the Indian Super League playoffs, East Bengal remains focused on clinching two trophies this season: the Challenge League and the Super Cup scheduled for April.
In summary, East Bengal’s preparation for the AFC Challenge League quarterfinals in Turkmenistan is characterized by cultural adjustments and logistical challenges, including internet restrictions and heightened security. Despite these obstacles, the team’s head coach remains optimistic about their performance, spotlighting the players’ readiness and professionalism. The upcoming match against FK Arkadag is crucial, with aspirations of advancing to further rounds, bolstered by the team’s motivation to secure silverware this season.
Original Source: sportstar.thehindu.com
