Paro FC, the reigning champions of the BOB Bhutan Premier League 2024, is set to face Afghanistan’s Abu Muslim Farah FC in the preliminary round of the AFC Challenge League. The much-anticipated match will take place on Tuesday at Changlimithang Stadium and will decide who progresses to the group stage of the continental tournament.
In preparation for the crucial encounter, Paro FC has intensified its training sessions and bolstered its squad with three new signings aimed at strengthening the team’s depth and tactical flexibility.
“Our preparation is going well, and we’ve been closely analysing our opponents’ tactics and game plans with the coach. This is a crucial match for us. Winning it means moving on to the next round. It’s a must-win game. So, I urge all our fans to come out and support us,” said Nima Wangdi, Defender, Paro FC.
“It is not easy, but we are doing a good preparation and working hard because we know that Abu Muslim is not going to be easy for us. So, we are working hard to fight them,” said Evan Asante, Winger, Paro FC.
The club has yet to disclose its latest signings.
On the other side, Abu Muslim Farah FC, champions of the Afghan Premier League’s fourth season, have already arrived in the capital and are conducting training sessions in Thimphu.
The Afghan side has also voiced strong confidence ahead of the tie.
“We are happy to be here, and we are confident in doing our job. The players are preparing well. We did good the pre-session at Kabul. We know that Paro FC is a team with experience in this competition, with a foreign coach and good foreign players. But we have our confidence and ways to face them to get the three points,” said Fernando Santiago Varela, Head Coach, Abu Muslim Farah FC.
“It is very important for us to qualify for the group stage. From day one, our mindset is to win this game. All the players, staff, and management are very focused. It is one game, but it has a massive impact not just for our club but also for our country. We are ready, and we will give everything for this game to go to the group stage,” said Zelf Nazary, Captain, Abu Muslim Farah FC.
The preliminary round of the AFC Challenge League features 10 matchups involving clubs from South, Central, and Southeast Asia.
Only the winners of each fixture will secure a spot in the group stage, scheduled to begin in October this year.
Namgay Wangdi and Karma Samten Wangda
Edited by Phub Gyem
