Abahani Limited coach Mario Lemos said his players will give their best and are eager to clinch silverware when they lock horns with Rahmatganj Muslim Friends Society Sunday in the final of the Federation Cup kicking off at 5:30pm.
Abahani will start the match as clear favorites but Rahmatganj will be keen to continue their stellar form and giant killing streak in the final to achieve major silverware for the first time in their history at Birsreshtha Sipahi Mohammad Mostafa Kamal Stadium in Kamalapur.
“Whenever it is final, you need not motivate players. The trophy is the biggest motivator and boys will be eager to win it,” said Lemos at a press conference Saturday at BFF House.
Abahani, the powerhouse of the country’s football, have been facing stiff competition over the last few years from Bashundhara Kings but as the cash-rich side withdrew from the tournament citing problems with venue, the Dhanmondi-based outfit became title favorites.
However, they faced tremendous challenge in the semi-final against Saif Sporting Club and ultimately surmounted it through a tie-breaker following a pulsating 3-3 draw in 120 minutes.
Not only the fatigue of that match, Abahani may also face fitness issues as couple of their foreign recruits were injured during the semi-final.
But Lemos was confident of the recovery of his players and said they will give their all as they believe Rahmatganj are a strong team which deservedly reached the final.
Abahani skipper Nabib Newaj Jibon also hailed Rahmatganj and said they cannot afford to lower their intensity.
Rahmatganj coach Syed Golam Jilani acknowledged the strength of Abahani but believes his players will give their best to win the championship.
Rahmatganj beat Abahani’s arch-rival Mohammedan Sporting Club Limited in the semi-final 2-1 thanks to their spirited performance and tactical acumen.
Although the side conceded a goal very early their tight-knit defense showed resolute performance for the rest of the game.
Rahmatganj skipper Mahmudul Hasan Kiron was also upbeat on their chances.
“We all know Abahani are a big team but we will fight to make our passionate fans proud,” said Kiron.