I-League 2012-13: Kolkata Preview (Take 1, East Bengal).
The show must go on—this phrase must be the catch line for the upcoming I-League season 2012-13. Why not?? A lot of things happened regarding this I-League. Some months ago drama, speculations specially so called ‘IPL STYLE FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT’, all of these were on their way to block India’s biggest football tournament. But looks like it is not going to happen this time. Finally the biggest football tournament in the heart of India starts today.
The stage of the I-League 2012-13 is already set. East Bengal, Mohun Bagan and Prayag United, three giants from Kolkata are looking forward to grab the title this time. East Bengal was the runner-up the last season. But after defeating I-League defending champions Dempo SC in the final of the 34th Federation Cup, the Red and Gold Brigade have already won their first title of this season. No doubt this will boost up them.
Now take a close look on some strengths and Weaknesses of East Bengal and what the legends are thinking about them.
East Bengal:
Nick Name—The Red and Gold Brigade.
Coach—Trevor James Morgan.
Recent Success—Winner of the 34th Federation Cup.
Strengths— Considered the best mid-field right now in India. Mehatb Hussain and Penn Orji will be the key factor for East Bengal. In the front line Chidi Edeh, Manandeep Singh, Baljit Singh Saini will be a threat for any defense. East Bengal also has good bench strength.
Weaknesses—East Bengal’s main weak point is their three foreigners. Though club officials are finding a fourth foreigner, but seem they are not interested in this manner. If anybody from these three Chidi, Okpara and Penn gets injured then it will be a huge matter of concern for the British coach.
Prediction—Champion.
Subrata Bhattacharya—“They might be the champions. For three long years they are dealing with same players and same coach…but a lack of players who can hold the ball.”
Jose Ramirez Barreto—“Probable champion…Fed cup winning will encourage them more…if no one gets injury then they will be the champion.”