Shillong 10th April: After successfully conquering the pre-quarters of the Super Cup, Shillong Lajong FC gets ready for another big battle this time against a much familiar I-League side, Mohun Bagan on 11th April at the Kalinga Stadium at 4PM. The match will telecast live on Star Sports 2/HD and on the Hotstar App and Jio TV.
The youngest team of the Hero Super Cup final round were absolutely sensational as they came from 2 goals behind to grab that crucial win against Pune City with a three goals to two margin. Abdoulaye Koffi, Rakesh Pradhan and Skipper Samuel Lalmuanpuia scored those stunning three goals to seal the victory and booked a place in the quarterfinals stage of the tournament.
In the pre-match press conference, Shillong Lajong Coach, Alison Kharsyntiew said, “We believe in ourselves and that’s why we have come here. Yes, I remember that we were on the receiving end in I-League at our home. But come this Wednesday, it is a different game and we believe in our teamwork to get the mission accomplished once again. We accept the challenge.”
“I believe in teamwork. The cohesive force and the positive energy amongst the boys play the vital role. The synergy among Samuel, Koffi, Sheen and everyone else got the result for us against Pune”, added Alison.
Mohun Bagan is coming into this game after winning against Churchill Brothers by two goals to one. Aser Dipanda Dicka equalised as well as scored the winning goal to help his team advance to the next round.
In the pre-match press conference, Mohun Bagan coach, Sankarlal Chakraborty said, “ I-League is over. Although we have beaten them in Shillong, it’s history now. They have shown their capability against FC Pune City and we have seen how deadly they are, even in the 90th minute. On Wednesday, it is a new game and we are taking it very seriously.”
“It’s a knock-out game. We have to balance well between the defence and attack. We have to be quick enough to hurl a counter-attack from the defence, on the other hand, we have to fall back without any hesitation while the situation demands. One mistake can shatter the title dream completely.”
It may be mentioned that Shillong Lajong will be without the services of South Korean Defender, Juho Oh after he was recalled back to his country for his military services obligations. Youngster Kenstar Kharshong who was out of the last match due to injury is expected to be fit for the clash against the Mariners in place of Juho Oh.
It is the second quarter final match of the Hero Super Cup and promises to be an intense match as both teams prepare themselves to qualify for the Semi-Finals.
