Fresh from clinching a historic domestic double last season, Mohun Bagan SG now turn their focus to the continental stage as they prepare to face Turkmenistan’s FK Ahal in their AFC Champions League Two opener at the Salt Lake Stadium, on Tuesday.
Last season’s continental campaign was one to forget for the Mariners, as their remaining matches were forfeited after they withdrew from travelling to Iran amid political tensions. This time, head coach José Molina is determined to leave a mark in Asia.
“It’s a pleasure to be back in the AFC,” Molina said on the eve of the clash. “It will be a difficult match against a good opponent. AFC matches are always tough, but we are confident in our team. I think our team is ready for tomorrow and I’m satisfied with our preparations.”
While Mohun Bagan boasts a squad with six foreigners, Molina is unlikely to deploy them all in his starting XI. Star winger Manvir Singh remains unavailable, leaving a big gap on the flank. Youngster Kiyan Nassiri is expected to step in, while Brazilian attacker Robson Robinho and talisman Dimitrios Petratos could be used later in the game.
Molina acknowledged that the lack of match sharpness could be a concern. Since their Durand Cup exit to East Bengal on August 17, the Mariners have only played one friendly — against FC Goa last week. “We did not get too many matches, but yes, we played against Goa. Still, I believe we are ready,” Molina said.
Midfielder Anirudh Thapa, who is returning to full fitness, echoed his coach’s confidence. “It’s AFC and it won’t be easy. We are well prepared and hopefully we will have a good start. I think we have a good squad. Injuries are part of the game, but if I play tomorrow, I will give my best,” Thapa said.
FK Ahal, their opponent, arrive with significantly more competitive minutes under their belt. The Turkmenistan champions, founded in 1989 and based in Änew, are midway through their domestic Ýokary Liga season, having already played 17 league games this year. They also squeezed in three friendlies before arriving in Kolkata three days ago to acclimatise.
Ahal head coach Eziz Annamuhammedov struck a confident tone ahead of the fixture. “We are very happy to be here, thank you for your hospitality. We came here to get three points. We made a good analysis of the opponent — they are a strong side, but our players are ready,” he said.
Unlike Mohun Bagan, Ahal field only domestic talent, with 7–8 players from the U-23 national team and 5–6 regulars from the Turkmenistan senior side. They are led by winger Elman Tagayev, a proven scorer in continental competitions, with support from versatile right-back Hakmuhammet Bashimov and veteran goalkeeper Gurbanmyrat Garayev. Promising 20-year-old Magtymberdi Berenov also offers pace and flair on the flank.
“We know about the foreigners of Mohun Bagan, but we will play tactically. Let them think about our defenders. Our players are ready,” Annamuhammedov remarked.
The Mariners will rely on the roar of the Salt Lake crowd, something Molina emphasised. “Always when we play here, we feel the crowd is important for us. They always push us to do well. Hopefully tomorrow, they will help us achieve the points,” he said.