Cultural Challenges for East Bengal Ahead of AFC Challenge League Clash in Turkmenistan

East Bengal faces cultural and logistical challenges in Turkmenistan ahead of their AFC Challenge League match against FK Arkadag, including strict internet controls and passport confiscation. Despite these issues, the team’s coach asserts their readiness and motivation. The outcome of this encounter will determine their progression in the competition as they seek to win remaining trophies this season.

East Bengal is encountering numerous hurdles in Turkmenistan as they prepare for their AFC Challenge League quarterfinal match against FK Arkadag on March 12. The club arrived on March 9 to acclimate to local conditions, but they quickly faced a culture shock due to unfamiliar rules and regulations in the host country.

Despite the challenges, the team is allowed to train before the match and all players are reportedly in good physical condition. However, the team members have had their passports confiscated at their hotel and are facing restricted internet access outside their accommodations, resulting in heightened surveillance around them.

Oscar Bruzon, the head coach of East Bengal, expressed confidence in his team’s readiness, stating, “The team is in the best condition. We have been going through some issues during the season and some changes in the form of injuries. But right now, I think most of the players are available, eager and excited to be in such an important competition in the final stage.”

Turkmenistan, which emerged post-Soviet Union in 1991, is known for its authoritarian rule and lack of personal freedoms. The current leadership has continued a trend of censorship, severely limiting internet access and banning popular social media platforms, which earned the country a low score in a 2023 Freedom House report regarding political and civil liberties.

In their previous encounter, East Bengal lost the first leg against Arkadag with a score of 1-0, thanks to a goal from Gurbanov Yazgylych. The return match will occur at Arkadag Stadium, with the aggregate winner advancing to face either Al-Arabi from Kuwait or Al-Seeb from Oman in the upcoming semifinal. Coach Bruzon emphasized the team’s professional approach, asserting, “There’s no need for too many words. We want to let them know what they have to do, and we have full time for that already. So, we will try our best and win this game.”

After being eliminated from the Indian Super League playoffs, East Bengal remains focused on claiming two remaining trophies this season: the Challenge League and the Super Cup set for April.

In summary, East Bengal confronts significant challenges prior to their AFC Challenge League match in Turkmenistan, dealing with culture shock, restrictions on internet access, and heightened surveillance. Nevertheless, the team remains in good physical condition and is eager to perform well under the leadership of Coach Oscar Bruzon. Their focus extends beyond this match, as they aim to secure trophies in both the Challenge League and the Super Cup for the remainder of the season.

Original Source: sportstar.thehindu.com