Abahani eye Super Cup

Traditional powerhouse Dhaka Abahani are firmly focused to win the last football silverware of the season, the Super Cup,  and the Sky Blues are confident to end their title drought with an all out team effort. Reigning champions Dhaka Abahani, who won the second edition of the Super Cup back in 2011, has the firepower to challenge all the other title contenders while the depth of their squad and the experience their player hold makes them a favourite along with Sheikh Russell.  Over the years the key to Abahani’s success has been the strong teamwork, which was non-existent this year. This has also been a contributing factor in Abahani’s failure to grab the title of the Federation Cup, the Independence Day Cup and the Bangladesh Premier League. However, this time, with all local players, Abahani is motivated to give their best and win the last trophy of the season. In an all local context, Abahani has the armaments that could see them arrive as the unbeatable one. A strong supporter base is also a factor that can drive the team for the ultimate success. The Sky Blues supporters have been deprived of celebrating any title and they strongly hope that their team will provide them the occasion to celebrate. Long serving coach Amalesh Sen is trying to lift the spirits of his players. “They are working hard and they are focused to win the title. The jersey of Abahani can transform a player to a winner. We have experienced players and they have the ability to cope with the pressure. We hope to win the title,” said Amalesh. Long serving manager Satyajit Das Rupu is also hopeful that his team has the power to fill the vacuum of the foreign players. “We have regular players who have played alongside the foreign recruits. Moreover, many of the players have played for the national and national U-23 teams.  The vacuum of foreign players will be felt, but it won’t be the decisive factor,” opined Rupu. Abahani, who failed to defend the title and finished third in the league, heavily relied on Ghanaian defender Samad Youssif, defensive midfielder Yoko Samnic of Cameroon, Ghanaian playmaker Awudu Ibrahim and forward Twum Frank and Nigerian striker Lucky Paul Otofe. However, a strong defence line featuring Shujon, Waly Faisal, Bhashani, and Siraji, an efficient midfield with holding midfielder Pranotosh and attacking midfielder Abdul Baten Komol along with seasoned forward Rony and Enamul, Abahani are a team to be noted.