Kolkata : Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 champion Mohun Bagan Super Giants are set to face Turkmenistan team Ahal FK at home ground Yuva Bharati Kriangan, Salt Lake, Kolkata, on September 16, 2025 in ACL 2 clash.
Mohun Bagan proved themselves as India’s best winning league shield and ISL last year, thereby qualifying for group stage in ACL 2. But having proved themselves best in India isn’t enough as head coach Jose Molina is up for Asian challenge, where to he and Mohun Bagan confident to prove their mettle.
Molina said, “Ahal FK is a strong team. So it’s going to be a tough match. But I am quite confident about our team. There is no good coach without good players. Mohun Bagan has the best players. That’s why I am so confident. And for that, we have to face a little problem in choosing the starting XI.”
“We are not only the best team in India but also want to prove that we are also ready to fight on the Asian stage. Our team is ready for tomorrow. We are ready to win tomorrow’s match.” However, Manveer Singh’s injury could be a thorn in his side in this campaign. Molina said that Manveer is uncertain against Ahal FK. In this match, he wants the green-maroon fans to be by his side. Molina said, “It becomes easier to achieve the goal when the fans are on his side. The players are ready to give their best“, Molina added.
Regarding team combination Molina said, “It’s difficult for me to make a best 11. Everyone in our team is a good player. Those who are in the best rhythm will get a chance. Robson and the new players are giving their best. I’m very happy with them. Not only them but everyone is practicing hard. I think we are ready for the match tomorrow.”
Mohun Bagan midfielder Anirudh Thapa who was also present in press conference along with Jose Molina said, “The match is going to be tough. But we want to start well. We are confident because our team is strong. Last year we had the same team. So we know what the coach wants. We will play that way“.
However, Thapa doesn’t know whether he’ll be in starting 11, but, would like to utilize every opportunities. Last but not the least, he also congratulated Indian Football team for securing Bronze in CAFA Nation’s Cup where Mohun Bagan players didn’t participate for ACL 2 duties.
Mohun Bagan has made special arrangements for the fans to travel for this match. The match starts at 7.15 pm. A special metro will run from Salt Lake Stadium Metro Station to Howrah Maidan: At 9.30 pm. There will be special bus services from Bidhannagar, Sealdah Station, Science City and Dharmatala to Salt Lake Stadium: From 5.00 pm to 7.30 pm and from 9.30 pm to 11.00 pm. There will also be special ferry services from Babughat and Ahiritola Launch Ghat.
