With two wins from two matches, Antonio Habas' side just need a draw in their last group match against Bashundhara Kings.
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ATK Mohun Bagan need to simply record a draw in their final group stage encounter of AFC Cup 2021, against Bashundhara Kings of Bangladesh to reach the knock-out stage. The Kolkata-based franchise recently pulled off a stunning comeback against Maldives-based Maziya in a group encounter, recording a 3-1 win. Liston Colaco, Roy Krishna and Manbir Singh scored for the Green Maroon, with Roy now scoring in two consecutive matches in the competition. ATK Mohun Bagan manager Antonio Habas has confirmed that the players will be looking to maintain their winning streak against Bashundhara Kings, rather than simply going for a draw.
“We did not play our own game in the first half. Maziya has fought neck to neck against us. They also got a goal. But after coming back to the dressing room, in the second half we changed strategy. We brought some changes to the team. That’s why the match came in our hands. You will see that my boys have played two types of football in two halves if you notice. I am proud of the boys,” said Habas.
“Now we have six points. No other team has that. If we make a draw, we have a chance to go to the next round. But we are not thinking about the draw. The boys will play the next match to win because it is another important match against an unknown opponent. So, there is no chance to enter the field thinking of anything other than winning. Bashundhara is a very good team. We have to give the team more importance,” he added.
Habas stated that he is ensuring proper rest for the players, considering the heat and tight schedule.
“It is sweltering here. The soil in the field is hard. So, I am making the footballers play with some rest. We have to play two matches in six days. We have to play Matches every two days and that’s why Hugo Boumous and some footballers are playing after getting rest. However, I am happy that those coming down from the reserve bench are also giving their best. They help the team to win.”
Attacker Roy Krishna was full of praise for his fellow attackers, stating that they demonstrated their capabilities in the second half. Krishna further believes that his goal against Maziya which was ruled out as an offside, should have been allowed to continue.
“My goal, which was cancelled for offside. It was a legal goal in my opinion. However, the decision of the referee is final. We have a lot of good footballers on our team. Our attacking line is effective enough. We showed that in the second half. We played our own game. This is the real character of our team, the mentality of fighting till the last minute. We have to maintain that in the last match of the group as well,” said Krishna.
Manvir Singh dedicated his goal against Maziya to the supporters, stating that the players backed themselves to get the job done.
“We never thought that we would not succeed even after falling behind. I never felt any pressure. I knew that we would win. Although I played for the country, I am playing for the first time in the AFC Cup. I got a goal there. The team also won. I am dedicating my memorable goal to the family and the Green Maroon supporters.”
