East Bengal faces cultural and logistical challenges in Turkmenistan ahead of their AFC Challenge League quarterfinal against FK Arkadag. Despite training limitations and heightened surveillance, the team remains optimistic about their chances. Coach Oscar Bruzon emphasized the players’ readiness and eagerness for the competition as they seek to bounce back from a previous defeat.
East Bengal faced numerous challenges upon their arrival in Turkmenistan for the AFC Challenge League quarterfinal match against FK Arkadag, scheduled for March 12. The Red-and-Gold Brigade traveled to Turkmenistan on March 9, seeking to adapt to the different regulatory environment they encountered.
Prior to the match, the players have been permitted to train and are reported to be in good physical condition. However, they are contending with limitations such as the lack of internet access outside their accommodations and the confiscation of their passports by hotel management. Furthermore, heightened surveillance around the team has been noted.
Oscar Bruzon, the head coach of East Bengal, commented on the team’s preparedness: “The team is in the best condition. We have been going through some issues during the season and some changes in the form of injuries. But right now, I think most of the players are available, eager and excited to be in such an important competition in the final stage.”
Turkmenistan has experienced authoritarian governance since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, with a history of political censorship and human rights violations. Popular social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, remain banned within the country, as indicated by a Freedom House report, which assigned the country a score of two out of 100 for political freedoms and civil liberties in 2023.
In the first leg of the quarterfinal match held at Yuva Bharati Krirangan, East Bengal suffered a defeat against Arkadag, with Gurbanov Yazgylych scoring the only goal for a 1-0 result. The return match will take place at Arkadag Stadium, where the aggregate winner will progress to face either Al-Arabi from Kuwait or Al-Seeb from Oman in the semifinals.
Coach Bruzon expressed confidence in his team’s approach, stating, “There’s no need for too many words. We are all professionals. We want to let them know what they have to do, and we have full time for that already. So, we will try our best and win this game.” After being eliminated from the Indian Super League playoffs, East Bengal now focuses on competing for the Challenge League title and the upcoming Super Cup in April.
In summary, East Bengal confronts a unique set of challenges as they prepare for their AFC Challenge League match against FK Arkadag in Turkmenistan. The team’s acclimatization is hindered by cultural differences and restrictions, yet they remain determined to succeed despite these obstacles. Coach Oscar Bruzon expressed optimism regarding player readiness and commitment to achieving victory in this prestigious tournament, as East Bengal aims to claim titles in the wake of their Super League elimination.
Original Source: sportstar.thehindu.com
