The Hindu : Sport / Football : Odafa, Chidi hold the key

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Odafa, Chidi hold the key

NEW DELHI: The return of Gauramangi Singh to the playing eleven would enhance Churchill Brothers’ chances against Mahindra United as the 121st Osian’s Durand Cup football tournament reaches its final stage at Ambedkar Stadium.

On the eve of the final of the tournament, Mahindra United would do well to remember what transpired at this very venue 10 months ago when Onekya Odafa’s strike left the team frustrated and gave Churchill Brothers its first ever Durand title.

Odafa, who slammed 11 goals in the last edition, has not looked in the same form, scoring just one, but he remains the difference between the teams.

His presence upfront means Mahindra United would be under constant pressure, but how long can the Nigerian sustain his endurance to play the role of a roving striker would be the key to victory as far as Churchill Brothers is concerned.

The Churchill Brothers defence would need to watch out for Paresh Shivalkar, who loves to hustle the defenders and backs himself all the way.

His innovative runs have made an impression on the audience and a repeat on Sunday could well carry Mahindra United to a title they have looked capable of winning. — Special Correspondent

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