Struggling Minerva face Neroca FC test at home today

Tribune News Service

Panchkula, February 22

After facing a 4-0 defeat against Iranian Pro League side Saipa FC on their AFC Cup debut, Minerva Punjab FC will be eager to get back on their feet when they take on Neroca FC in their 17th-roound I-League match at Tau Devi Lal Stadium here on February 22. 

The defending champions, who refused to play against Real Kashmir FC in Srinagar over security concerns in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack, are currently placed ninth with 14 points from 16 games. Neroca FC have garnered 26 points from 17 matches so far and are placed fifth. 

“We are pretty much confident about tomorrow's game. We are left with only three matches and this is a high time to clinch a victory. Hope the players will have the capacity to take what is coming,” said Minerva Punjab FC Coach Sachin Badadhe. 

Badadhe, meanwhile, refused to comment on the recent controversy in which some of their foreign players had accused the club officials of misbehaviour. 

“Those were totally baseless allegations by the players. It was sheer frustration. They could have approached us rather than taking to the social media...There was no merit in their allegations,” said the coach.  

The first leg match between the two sides had ended in a goalless draw but Neroca FC is keen to make the amends in tomorrow's match. 

“In the first match, we were very unlucky but I have seen my team perform better. We have to give our best and take three points. Yes, we couldn't beat them at home but we have another chance tomorrow and we have to grab this opportunity with both hands,” said Neroca FC Coach Manuel Fraile. 

Neroca will also get the much needed boost with the return of their Bhutanese striker Chencho Gyeltshen. 

“Presence of Chencho will certainly boost us as he is well aware of this field. He had performed exceptionally well last season for Minerva. He will be carrying a big responsibility tomorrow,” Fraile added.