Federation Cup: Pune FC placed in tough draw

New Delhi, Aug 31 - Pune FC has been clubbed with Salgaocar SC, Prayag United SC and United Sikkim SC in Group D of the 34rd Federation Cup that begins from Sep 19.

All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) season opener, comprising sixteen teams in four groups, will have Pune FC contest all their main phase group matches in Ranchi.

Pune FC begin their campaign against newly-promoted I-League side United Sikkim SC Sep 20. After which they take on Prayag United SC Sep 22 before rounding off the group stage against defending champions Salgaocar SC Sep 24.

The draw was conducted in the presence of all club representatives at the Football House in Dwarka here recently.

Group A will also contest their matches in Ranchi, while Group B and Group C would be playing their matches in Siliguri.

Group winners will make the semifinals. Both venues – Ranchi and Siliguri – will host one semifinal each. The final is slated to be held in Siliguri.

Groups:

Group A: Dempo SC, Mumbai FC, Pailan Arrows, Shillong Lajong FC

Group B: Mohun Bagan, Churchill Brothers, Air-India, Qualifier ‘A’

Group C: Sporting Clube de Goa, Kingfisher East Bengal, ONGC, Qualifier ‘B’

Group D: Pune FC, Salgaocar SC, Prayag United SC, United Sikkim