East Bengal eyes first win in AFC Champions League Two against bottom-placed Al-Seeb

In its previous home outing in the AFC Champions League Two, East Bengal fell to a narrow defeat. | Photo Credit: PTI

East Bengal FC faces a crucial test against Oman’s Al-Seeb Club at the Salt Lake Stadium on Tuesday as both sides seek their first victory in the AFC Champions League Two group stage.

The stakes are high for Antonio Lopez Habas’ men as East Bengal sits third in Group D with two points (gained from the two draws away from home) from three matches. Al-Seeb is at the bottom with one point.

With only the top two teams advancing to the Round of 16, both sides desperately need a win to revive their qualification hopes.

The reverse fixture in Oman on October 27 ended in a goalless draw, with East Bengal showing defensive resilience. Goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa played a key role, producing big saves to keep Al-Seeb at bay. East Bengal also threatened on the counter-attack but failed to capitalise on promising opportunities.

Habas will be expecting a greater attacking precision at home, with his forwards needing to make the most of the chances created. Converting quick transitions into clear-cut opportunities could prove decisive against an Al-Seeb side that has demonstrated its defensive discipline.

The partisan crowd at the Salt Lake Stadium offers East Bengal an opportunity to draw inspiration for a better showing. The host will also be keen to address the defensive lapses that contributed to its narrow 2-3 defeat against Iraq’s Al-Shorta in its previous home fixture in the competition.

Anwar Ali is expected to play a central role in organising East Bengal’s defence, while Dani Ramírez could be crucial in controlling midfield and linking defence with attack. On the flanks, the likes of Bipin Singh, David Lalhlansanga and Edmund Lalrindika offer pace and directness. Their ability to stretch Al-Seeb’s defence could create valuable openings that East Bengal will be keen to exploit.

For the visitor, Abdulaziz Al-Muqbali and Abdulmageed Al Balushi will form the attacking threat that the East Bengal defence will have to contend with.

After the draw in the previous matchweek, East Bengal must translate that resilience into attacking effectiveness at home.