AIFF Academy await EB test
East Bengal edged past Salgaocar FC courtesy a brace from Suranjit Singh and a goal from Bidyashagar Singh
Both AIFF Elite Academy and East Bengal will fancy their chances in the final of the U-18 ILeague at Barasat Stadium in Kolkata on Sunday.
The AIFF team are in line for a third successive title while East Bengal are in their maiden U-18 final.
Little separates the two sides on the scale of performances leading to the final.
Both teams qualified after beating strong opponents in the last four stage.
AIFF Elite Academy secured their spot after surviving a penalty shootout against United Sports Club. Goalkeeper Samik Mitra made three saves in the shootout to become their hero.
East Bengal edged past Salgaocar FC courtesy a brace from Suranjit Singh and a goal from Bidyashagar Singh.
Elite Academy coach Floyd Pinto was confident ahead of the summit clash.
“There is absolutely no pressure on the team. The team has confidence in its ability to win the final against East Bengal,” he said.
“It will be a tough game against a strong team but I can assure all that players are ready. My players have shown that they are hungry for victory and the title.
“I am proud of my players and what they have shown during this tournament. It will be great if the end they win the title.” the 31-year-old coach added.
East Bengal will be carrying the advantage of being the home side. Their midfield has been well marshalled by Prakash Sarkar and Yami Longvah and the strike pair of Lalcchanhima and Suranjit have been excellent.
“The team is prepared and there are no worries as far as the fitness of the players are concerned. I am very happy with the progress of my team, which has shown great improvement match after match. We have a great deal of respect for AIFF Elite Academy but I know my players are capable of winning the title,” East Bengal coach Tarun Dey said.