AFC Challenge League: East Bengal FC take on Bashundhara Kings in a crucial clash

East Bengal FC, the Kolkata giants, are set to face off against Bashundhara Kings, the Bangladeshi champions, in a crucial AFC Challenge League match on Tuesday, May 9. The match will be played at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, India.

East Bengal FC are currently in third place in the AFC Challenge League standings with 10 points from five matches, while Bashundhara Kings are in second place with 12 points from five matches. A win for East Bengal FC will put them level on points with Bashundhara Kings, while a win for Bashundhara Kings will see them extend their lead at the top of the table.

The match is a must-win for both teams as they look to secure a place in the AFC Cup, Asia’s second-tier club competition. East Bengal FC have won the AFC Cup twice, in 2003 and 2004, and will be keen to return to the competition.

Bashundhara Kings, on the other hand, are making their debut in the AFC Challenge League and will be looking to make a strong impression. The Bangladeshi champions have won the Bangladesh Premier League for the last two seasons and will be confident of their chances against East Bengal FC.

The match is expected to be a close and exciting affair. East Bengal FC will be looking to use their home advantage to their advantage, while Bashundhara Kings will be looking to continue their good form in the AFC Challenge League.

Key Players

East Bengal FC will be relying on their experienced players to lead them to victory. Mehtab Hossain, the former India captain, is a key player for East Bengal FC. The midfielder is known for his passing and vision, and he will be looking to create chances for his teammates.

Bashundhara Kings will be looking to their foreign players to make a difference. Brazilian forward Robinho is the club’s top scorer in the AFC Challenge League with four goals. The forward is known for his pace and finishing, and he will be looking to add to his tally against East Bengal FC.

Prediction

Both teams have quality players and will be confident of victory. However, East Bengal FC’s home advantage could be the deciding factor. I predict a 2-1 win for East Bengal FC.