East Bengal faces a cultural shock in Turkmenistan ahead of their AFC Challenge League quarterfinal against FK Arkadag. The team arrived to acclimatize but encountered strict regulations, including passport confiscation and limited internet access. Coach Oscar Bruzon is optimistic about the team’s condition despite previous injuries as they aim for victory in a crucial match.
East Bengal is gearing up for their AFC Challenge League quarterfinal against FK Arkadag in Turkmenistan on March 12. The team arrived on March 9 to acclimatize but faced significant cultural differences, including strict regulations unlike those in India. Training has been permitted, and players are reported to be in good shape despite some prior injuries. Notably, team members’ passports have been confiscated, and they are experiencing controlled internet access outside their accommodation.
Head coach Oscar Bruzon commented on the team’s readiness, stating, “The team is in the best condition… most of the players are available, eager and excited to be in such an important competition in the final stage.” Turkmenistan has been notable for its authoritarian governance since the Soviet Union’s dissolution, with stringent censorship policies impacting internet access. Popular platforms like Facebook and Instagram are banned, reflecting a serious restriction on political freedoms, as noted in the 2023 Freedom House report.
In the first leg of the quarterfinal, East Bengal suffered a narrow defeat, losing 1-0 to Arkadag due to a goal from Gurbanov Yazgylych. The return match will determine which team advances to face either Al-Arabi from Kuwait or Al-Seeb from Oman in the semifinal. Bruzon emphasized the professional expectations, saying, “We want to let them know what they have to do… we will try our best and win this game.”
Having been eliminated from the Indian Super League playoffs, East Bengal is now focused on winning two remaining trophies this season: the Challenge League and the Super Cup in April.
East Bengal is confronting both cultural challenges and competitive pressures as they prepare for an important AFC Challenge League clash against FK Arkadag. The team is in good condition despite earlier setbacks, and coach Oscar Bruzon remains optimistic. With ongoing restrictions in Turkmenistan, the players must adapt quickly to the conditions while aiming for victory to stay in the hunt for silverware this season.
Original Source: sportstar.thehindu.com
