The Hindu : Sport / Football : Fed Cup: Mahindra faces Chirag

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Saturday, Nov 18, 2006
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Fed Cup: Mahindra faces Chirag

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: Defending champion Mahindra United plays new entrant Chirag United in the opening encounter of the Peerless 28th Federation Cup football tournament which begins at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on December 18.

As per the draw released by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for the knockout event here on Friday, Mohammedan Sporting takes on Vasco Sports Club, Goa, in the second match.

Sixteen premier clubs of the country will vie for the winner's share of Rs. 12 lakh out of a total prize-fund of Rs. 26 lakh. The runner-up will get Rs. seven lakh. The final will be played on December 30.

Besides Chirag United, Viva Kerala is the other debutant in the tournament. Viva Kerala had done well in the local league and its efforts of the last two years landed it a place in the competition. The southern team, however, runs into 11-time champion Mohun Bagan in its first match.

There is also recognition for the Army XI, the winner of last year's Durand Cup. Tata Football Academy was not considered, as it did not want to turn professional. It may be recalled that for the same reason, TFA was kept out of the National Football League.

"TFA can participate in the Federation Youth Programme," said the AIFF President, Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi.

The draw: Pre-quarterfinals: Mahindra United vs Chirag United (Dec. 18); Mohammedan Sporting vs Vasco SC (Dec. 18); JCT Mills v Salgaocar (Dec. 19); Army XI v Sporting Clube de Goa (Dec. 19); East Bengal v SBT (Dec. 20); HAL v Dempo (Dec. 20); Air-India v Churchill Brothers (Dec. 21); Mohun Bagan v Viva Kerala (Dec. 21). Quarterfinals: December 22, 23 and 24; Semifinals: December 26 and 27; Third place match: December 29; Final: December 30.