I-League 2018-19: East Bengal vs Indian Arrows: Preview and predictions
After suffering defeat at the hands of Chennai City, East Bengal host Indian Arrows tomorrow. The Kolkata giants could not manage to hold on to their lead against Chennai, and thus continue trailing at the sixth spot. Therefore, the match against Arrows is a must-win fixture for East Bengal, if they want to keep their hopes of a title triumph alive. Here's our preview.
Why East Bengal's title challenge has become difficult
If East Bengal had won against Chennai, they would have been at a greater advantage than second-placed Churchill and Real Kashmir, as they would have had equal points with a game in hand. However, now that they have failed to do so, even a win tomorrow will not take them past the second-placed teams. That said, East Bengal have a solid chance to go level with Churchill and Kashmir.
Indian Arrows - How sharp do they look?
Indian Arrows will be coming off a convincing away win against Shillong Lajong, and will be looking to make a deep impact with a win over EB. They have now surpassed Gokulam in the league table, and have players who have been performing consistently. Though winning at Kolkata against East Bengal won't be easy, Indian Arrows cannot be ruled out just yet.
Who will be the key players in tomorrow's fixture?
Jobby Justin will be the one East Bengal will look towards for their goals, while Borja Gomez will be the main man in defense for the Red and Golds. Toni Dovale is another vital player for East Bengal, and he has to step up after his unimpressive display against Chennai. Meanwhile, Arrows will be looking to Anwar Ali and Vikram Pratap Singh for inspiration.
Predicted XI and TV listing
East Bengal: Dagar, Lalramchullova, Acosta, Gomez, Mohammad, Ralte, Aidara, Ralte, Dovale, Colado, Justin. Indian Arrows: Gill, Rai, J Singh, Ali, B Singh, Tangri, A Singh, Lalengmawia, Meetei, KP, Pratap. The match is scheduled to kick-off at 5:00 PM and will be broadcast on the Star Sports network. It can also be live-streamed on Hotstar or Jio TV.
Who is likely to clinch the victory tomorrow?
East Bengal have the advantage tomorrow in all sectors - the match is at their home, they have been playing better football this season, and also have better players in their ranks. They should ideally come off with a win, but need to play more positive, attacking football in order to do so. The match should end at least 2-0 in their favor.
