Twelve-time Federation Cup champions Abahani Limited set their sights on a semi-final berth, as they will face off Fortis FC on Tuesday.
The match scheduled to kick-off at 3:00pm at the Bashundhara Kings Arena.
The Sky Blues finished second in Group B with six points from three matches.
Fortis FC, despite finishing second in Group C with only three points from two games, will be no pushovers. They'll be looking to pull off an upset against Abahani and they are expreinced.
Abahani will be watchful to rectify their recent struggles against Fortis in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), as they have bitter experiences. They lost the first leg match to Fortis by 1-0 in December 30, 2023 and could managed a 1-1 draw in the second phase on April 5.
Abahani Coach Andrés Cruciani thinks that the match against Fortis FC will be very tough one. It will not be easy task to beat the opponent. From midfield to forward, everyone will have to play vital role and the defence will also have to be alart. It is one of the prestigious issues for the Sky Blue to win the match.
But the Fortis FC certainly the underdogs in the today’s match and it is their first-ever appearance in the Federation Cup quarter-finals. They will approach in the game with a "nothing to lose" mentality but are determined to give their best to make upset.
Coach Masud Parvez Kaisar of Fortis believes it won't be a one-sided affair. He expects a fierce battle, with both teams showcasing their best performances to secure a coveted spot in the semifinal.
Reached into last eight in the Federation Cup is a big achievement for Fortis.
Coach Masud Parvez Kaisar, who thinks they have nothing to lose, said, “We defeat Abahani in the BPL. So, we have a chance to win the match. We will try our level best.”
“It will not be a one-sided match. It is a knockout encounter, so, both teams will show their best performance,” said the coach.