Photo: BSS

DHAKA, August 11, 2025 (BSS)- Abahani Limited Dhaka’s head coach Maruful Haque was found optimistic for his team’s positive result against Muras United of Kyrgyzstan.

Abahani Limited will take on Muras United in the home match of AFC Challenge League scheduled to be held tomorrow (Tuesday) at National Stadium at 5 pm.   

“When our rival was fixed in this group, we had an initial plan to take four weeks preparation for the match … but for some reason it did not happen, we have got twenty six days for preparation for the match,” Maruf said at a pre-match press conference held at the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) Bhaban today (Monday) afternoon.       

Conceding Muras United as very tough opponents  Maruf said if we look at their last few matches, it seems to me that if our players are able to play according to the plan and able to defend of their strong points, then we can expect a positive result,” he added. 

Maruf said though Muras United is new team of Kyrgyzstan but the way they have come in football in their country is totally European style. They have all facility like the European clubs and their playing style like the trend of European teams. 

Commenting about the foreign players in his team the experienced coach said he is very much aware of the capability of his foreign players who already proved fifty percent in the training session and he would be very pleased if they able to produce more fifty percent in the Tuesday’s match.

Maruf admitted that Muras United is technically and tactically ahead than Abahani but Maruf is keen to take the mental advantage to get the success in this tough match.

Replying to a question Maruf said “Home advantage is usually turned to a disadvantage … I don’t want to give pressure to my players rather I suggest my players to play natural game without any fear.          

Asaduzzaman Bablu, the new captain of Abahani Limited Dhaka, said they have taken a very good preparation for the match in the last twenty six days and quite hopeful for the positive result. 

The captain said players have underwent a good training in the last twenty six days for this match and expecting a good result if the players play according to coach’s plan in the match.

Actually we are thinking match by match in the league if we able to qualify, then we’ll think for the next round, he said to a questioner.

“Muras United head coach Puchkov Sergiy said they are very serious for the game because the team is going to participate in the AFC Challenge League for the first time. This league is a challenge for them and did our best preparation for the tournament.

Asked whether his side feels any pressure ahead for the away match against Abahani, the Muras United coach said off course it is easier for the local team to play in front of local crowds but his team played many matches outside and his boys have enough experience to handle this pressure.     

Zhaparov Amir, the captain of the Muras United, said they have taken very good preparation and hoped to win the Tuesday’s match against Abahani Limited.