ATK Mohun Bagan boss Juan Ferrando feels it will be a big opportunity for the club to play in the Asian competition as they will play Hero Club Playoffs match against Hyderabad FC at the EMS stadium in Kozhikode on Wednesday. The team which will win this contest will seal their preliminary round spot in the AFC Cup 2023-24.
Meanwhile, Mariners recently won the Hero ISL title and they will be looking to prove their mettle against the Nizams. On the other hand, Hyderabad had sealed a straight playoff for a continental spot after winning ISL 2021-22 season crown.
“For us, it’s very important. To play in international competitions is not just good for the players but also good for the club because it is a great opportunity to improve. So, this match is very much a part of our season,” Ferrando said during the pre-match press conference.
Meanwhile, ATK Mohun Bagan was part of the competition last season but suffered an Inter-zone playoff semi-final loss against Kuala Lumpur City FC.
“Two years ago, I participated in the group stages of the AFC Champions League (with FC Goa), last year it was the AFC Cup. But it is always different compared to previous seasons,” the Spaniard said.
“We play some of the best teams in Asia if we qualify and the teams change, they change the coach, their methodology. So against these teams, it’s important to control a lot of details,” he added.
On the other hand, Hyderabad FC head coach Manolo Marquez reckons it will be an emotional game for everyone.
“Of course, it will be difficult (for Hyderabad FC to secure the AFC berth). We have in front of us a very good and strong team. On the other hand, there is an emotional part, we (Manolo and his backroom staff) leave the club after this game and I think that it will be an emotional game for not only the players and staff, but for everyone connected to the club,” he said in the pre-match press conference.
Both teams will be determined to bring their best to the pitch on Wednesday.
