ISL 2021-22, Kolkata Derby: SC East Bengal head coach Manolo Diaz unfazed by underdogs tag against ATKMB: Unlike their rivals, SC East Bengal have not started off their new Indian Super League season with a win. Nevertheless, it only took them 17 minutes to score their first goal into the season which actually took them five matches in their last campaign. But the Red and Golds under the stewardship of head coach Manolo Marquez will be looking to scale new heights. Follow Live Updates of SC East Bengal vs ATK Mohun Bagan and also ISL 2021-22 on InsideSport.in
They have had a steady 1-1 start to their campaign against Jamshedpur FC. But they will mostly use this as a platform to launch themselves forward and eye for a win against rivals ATK Mohun Bagan in the all-important Kolkata Derby.
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Head coach Manolo Diaz understands the importance of the Derby as he admits that he has seen his fair share of them in Spain and Mexico. He assures the fans that SC East Bengal will be ready for this high voltage clash.
“The Kolkata Derby is very important for us. We know the importance of this particular match, having witnessed a number of them during my stint in Spain and Mexico,” Manolo began. Follow Live Updates of SC East Bengal vs ATK Mohun Bagan and also ISL 2021-22 on InsideSport.in
The Spaniard admits that it is difficult to play in the Kolkata Derby in their second match of the season. But he is hoping that his players will be able to capitalise on the weaknesses of their opponents.
“It sure is only the second official match but we don’t look for excuses. We will try to do our best but we know ATK Mohun Bagan is a good team and is helmed by a good coach who has experience in the ISL. We must have a strong structure, the focus will be on minimizing mistakes and capitalizing on the weak points of ATK Mohun Bagan,” Diaz continued.
SC East Bengal are coming to the game on the back of a 1-1 draw. Whereas ATK Mohun Bagan will be playing in the Kolkata Derby after brushing aside Kerala Blasters in a 4-2 win on the season opener. So looking at the current form, the Mariners will start the Kolkata Derby as favourites. But Manolo is unfazed with the underdogs’ tag ahead of the big clash.
“The underdog tag doesn’t bother us. We will play to our strengths. Though ATK Mohun Bagan had a very good last season and have a squad that have been playing together for many seasons, we are ready.
“We are working on different options and combinations because there are many matches that we’ll have to play in a short period of time so we’re keeping all options open,” stated Diaz.
ISL 2021-22, Kolkata Derby: SC East Bengal head coach Manolo Diaz unfazed by underdogs tag against ATKMB
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