Before taking on Al-Seeb, Habas stated that he makes no distinction between domestic and foreign players
Head coach Antonio Lopez Habas admitted that his team did not have much time to prepare after the previous encounter. However, they have been analysing their mistakes and working towards improving their performance.
Photo Courtesy: East Bengal FC
XtraTime Web Desk
East Bengal returned from Oman after playing out a draw against Al Seeb just over a week ago. On Tuesday, the Red and Gold Brigade will face the same opponents in the return leg at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan. Head coach Antonio Lopez Habas admitted that his team did not have much time to prepare after the previous encounter. However, they have been analysing their mistakes and working towards improving their performance.
Habas hinted that there would not be too many changes to the playing eleven on Tuesday. He made it clear that he does not differentiate between Indian and foreign players. According to him, East Bengal have some very good Indian footballers in their squad.
East Bengal will enjoy home advantage this time around. Habas also acknowledged that playing in front of their home supporters is always a positive experience and helps boost the team's confidence. However, he stressed that his players need to show greater intensity and make better use of the chances they create.
East Bengal captain Basim Rashid believes Tuesday's encounter is an opportunity for the team to bounce back. He feels that a victory is essential if they want to remain in contention in the tournament. Otherwise, their task will become extremely difficult.
According to Rashid, every match from Tuesday onwards will be like a final for East Bengal. The team is not looking too far ahead and is completely focused on the Al Seeb challenge. He, too, emphasised the importance of converting chances into goals.
Meanwhile, Al Seeb's coach described East Bengal as a very tough opponent. His team wants to use the experience gained from their previous meeting against the Kolkata giants. He believes the side that makes better use of its opportunities in the attacking third will ultimately come out on top.
