Match Preview: East Bengal vs Jamshedpur FC

East Bengal FC will return to Indian Super League action on Monday night hosting eastern neighbours Jamshedpur FC at the VYBK Stadium. Coach Carles and the boys will be looking forward to kicking off the league campaign on a positive note after their exploits in the Durand Cup earlier in the season.

The Red and Gold Brigade shared the spoils with the Red Miners last season, with both sides managing to beat each other away from home.

With an eye on the 3 points, Coach Carles and co. would be looking to begin the game on the front foot and make full use of the home advantage in what could prove to be a tricky opening night in Kolkata.

With defender Jordan Elsey unavailable due to an injury and Lalchungnunga representing the national team in Guangzhou, the Gaffer will have to go with a fresh centre back pairing for the match against Jamshedpur FC.

The rest of the squad will be available for selection.

Having extended his contract with the club recently, Naorem Mahesh Singh will look to continue where he left off last season alongside Skipper Cleiton Silva.

New signings Saul Crespo, Borja Herrera, Nandha, Prabshukan and co. are also expected to continue their good form from the Durand Cup whilst local boy Souvik will be eyeing a good showing following strong showings in pre-season.

Speaking to the media on the eve of the opener against Jamshedpur FC, Coach Carles said, “In the first half of the season, we are going to play many games at home, and with the atmosphere that we create with the fans, we have to go for a win at home in every match.” The gaffer believes the fans have a better connection with the team this season and are on the same page when it comes to making home advantage count.

Attending the conference alongside the Gaffer, Harmanjot Khabra expressed his happiness at being back at East Bengal after 7 long years and added how the gaffer and management’s belief in him and his abilities has been an important factor for him.

With a squad ready to fight for the top honours, a coach hungry for success and the most passionate fans in the stands, the season opener promises to be an exciting affair on Monday.