East Bengal FC will face Paro FC in their first group stage match of the AFC Challenge League. After a poor start to the season, the Red & Gold Brigade will be looking to turn their fortunes around with a win against the Bhutanese side. However, Paro FC is in high spirits and will not make it easy for East Bengal, as they aim to secure their own spot in the group stages.
East Bengal FC to Face Paro FC in AFC Challenge League
Background:
East Bengal FC, one of India's most prestigious football clubs, is set to participate in the AFC Challenge League, a continental tournament for developing nations. This is East Bengal's first appearance in the tournament, and they will be facing Bhutan's Paro FC in their opening match.
AFC Challenge League:
The AFC Challenge League is an annual football competition organized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) for countries that are not part of the FIFA World Cup qualifying system. The tournament is aimed at developing football in these countries and providing them with a pathway to compete in higher-level competitions.
Paro FC:
Paro FC, founded in 2006, is a professional football club from Bhutan. They are the third Bhutanese team to participate in the AFC Challenge League, after Yeedzin FC and Druk United FC. Paro FC won the Bhutan Premier League in 2019 and will be looking to make a strong impression in their continental debut.
Match Preview:
East Bengal FC will be the favorites going into the match against Paro FC, given their experience and pedigree. However, Paro FC has shown their quality in the Bhutanese league and will be determined to give a good account of themselves. The match will be played at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan, on March 1, 2023.
FAQs:
1. What is East Bengal FC's record in continental competitions? East Bengal has played in several continental competitions, including the AFC Cup and AFC Champions League. They have reached the semi-finals of the AFC Cup twice, in 2003 and 2013.
2. What are the stakes for East Bengal in the AFC Challenge League? A good performance in the AFC Challenge League can lead to East Bengal qualifying for the AFC Cup, which is a higher-level continental competition.
3. What is the history of Paro FC in the AFC Challenge League? This is Paro FC's first participation in the AFC Challenge League.
4. Who is the coach of East Bengal FC? Stephen Constantine is the current coach of East Bengal FC.
5. Who is the captain of Paro FC? Tenzin Gyeltshen is the captain of Paro FC.
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