Kolkata, May 17: Fresh from winning the I-League title, a buoyant Gokulam Kerala team is faced with a new challenge as they take on local heavyweights ATK Mohun Bagan in the AFC Cup group D opener at the Salt Lake Stadium on Wednesday.
Last Saturday, the Malabarians became the first team to defend the I-League, when they edged out local giants Mohammedan Sporting 2-1 in the decider. Three days later, Vincenzo Alberto Annese’s side will be up against a whole new challenge in the continental showpiece where they qualified by virtue of winning the last season’s league.
In all, Annese’s side won 13 matches, drew four and lost only once – in the penultimate round. They scored the highest number of goals – 44 – and conceded the least – 15 – in yet another perfect I-League season.
Slovenian centre-forward Luka Majcen, who was signed in the January transfer window when the league was suspended, has been their top goal-scorer with 13 goals.
“I’ve respect for all opponents but trust me you have respect for my team also. They must give everything tomorrow,” said Annese.
The Mariners, who have qualified by finishing runners-up in the last ISL, have already navigated past Sri Lanka’s Blue Star SC and Abahani Limited Dhaka of Bangladesh to book their group stage slot.
With all the group matches slated at their home venue of Salt Lake Stadium, the Mariners will be high on confidence. while there will also be pressure to deliver with only one berth available from the group. (PTI)
