Assam soccer enthusiasts await semis, final of Federation Cup - India News and Travel Times Provides India-centric and other News and Features

Soccer enthusiasts in Guwahati are an elated lot since the semi-final and final matches of the country's leading inter-club championship are being played here after a gap of three decades. The last four stage ties of the Federation Cup will be played here at the Nehru Stadium on Wednesday and Thursday. The first match will be between Goa 's Churchill Brothers and Lajong Football Club of Shillong. Indeed, the local fans are bound to cheer for Lajong FC since this side is also from the Meghalaya. The second semi-final will be between the arch rivals of Kolkata's Maidan - Mohun Bagan and East Bengal . In the second semi final, the limelight is bound to be on the graceful striker Bhaichung Bhutia, the present captain of national team who made a controversial move to East Bengal after playing for Mohun Bagan last season. His optimism could be gauged from his words when he said that he also hopes to perform well in the finals. Speaking to ANI Baichung Bhutia said : "Every match is a new match. Semifinal is important for team. I think to win Federation Cup. Final is great because any team which wins will enter and qualify for AFC (Asian Football Club Championship.) challenge. I think for us definitely winning is what we are looking in. It's not that easy as every team is good. So we have to play really hard.” Alvito, another player from the East Bengal club mentioned that it is a good opportunity as winners of the Federation Cup will get to play in the Asian Football Club Championship. "It is a big match.... semifinal match and those who will play well will reach final. It's a good opportunity. This tournament is such that whoever will play well will get to play AFC. So we are prepared for it," observed Alvito. The final is slated to be played on January 3.