Defending champions Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club will play against Sheikh Russel Krira Chakra in the first semifinal of the Federation Cup Football at the Bangabandhu National Stadium in the city today (Sunday), reports UNB.
The match is scheduled to begin at 5:15pm.
In the second semifinal, Mohammedan Sporting Club Ltd will face Muktijoddha Sangsad Krira Chakra at the same venue the following day (Monday).
Sheikh Jamal DC head coach Maruful Haque hoped that his side will engage full efforts in the semifinal to confirm their final berth while Captain Nasir Uddin Chowdhury wants to defend the title.
The coach considered Sheikh Russel KC as a big opponent.
The coach and captain were speaking at a press conference at the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) House Saturday.
Sheikh Russel KC team manager Jewel Rana represented his side at the press conference. He said, "We'll miss our four best players- Hemanta, Zahid, Reza and Jamal Hossain-due to injuries. "So, Sunday's match will be the final match for us."
Although Sheikh Russel KC players' fitness is not up to the mark compared to those of Sheikh Jamal, Jewel Rana thought his team still has the strength to play final defeating the tough opponent.
Meanwhile, Mohammedan Sporting Club Ltd head coach Jasim Uddin Joshi hoped to play the final beating their opponent Muktijoddha Sangsad KC in the second semifinal.
"We have taken preparations and hope we will go far securing the final berth," Joshi said.
Mohammedan SC Captain Arup Kumar Boiyddo said, "We worked on technical side to face Muktijoddha. Hope we'll play the final."
Muktijoddha SKC captain Enamul Haque echoed head coach Abu Yusuf, saying his side always remains in the fight in this tournament.
Coach Enamul further added that his experienced players will display their strategic game against Mohammedan SC on day like a disciplined team.
BFF professional football league committee deputy chairman Abdur Rahim and BFF sectary Abu Nyeem Sohag also spoke at the conference.
