CHENNAI: The maiden edition of the Super Cup has seen I-League teams come up trumps over their ISL counterparts on more than one occasion — something that 2018 ISL semifinalists FC Pune City will be keen to avoid on Wednesday when they square off against Shillong Lajong.
Pune had a highly successful season under coach Ranko Popovic, reaching the last four stage for the first time in four years. After missing out on the title, the Serbian wants to ensure the team wins at least one piece of silverware this term. He, however, is aware of the level of I-League teams.
“I-League teams have taken the competition very seriously which is good for the cup. We need to be professional and ensure that we come out on top. We are in it to win it,” the 50-year-old added. Defensive midfielder Adil Khan, one of the standout performers of the ISL season, is confident that the team can make it all the way.
“Most people look at our foreign additions but the Indian group is also strong. We have quite a few versatile players who can play in a variety of positions. The only thing we have to ensure is that the match gets over in the allotted time,” he told Express.
Adil, who missed an entire year of action while playing for the now-disbanded Bharat FC, has completely gotten over his injury concerns and has even added goals to his overall game. The 29-year-old said that the coach’s methods have helped him improve. “I used to be a forward when I was young. But then, I became a defender. Since playing senior football, I have played as a right-back, central defender and now defensive midfielder.
“The coach told me to keep making runs into the box and as a result, I have scored as well. He likes versatility in a player and I want to ensure that the team wins the Super Cup.”
One thing that rankles Adil is the fact that he did not make it to the India team for the tie against Kyrgyz Republic.
“Personally, I thought I had a great year. I really wanted to make the team. But the coach opted for younger players. I need to keep improving and make sure that I make the Asian Cup squad.” Helping Pune clinch the Super Cup will be a step in that direction.
In Tuesday’s Super Cup match, Brandon Fernandes, Ferran Corominas and Hugo Boumous helped FC Goa beat ATK 3-1 and reach the quarters.
ayantan@newindianexpress.com