Goan side Churchill Brothers SC, who finished third in the I-League, are replacing champions Dempo SC in the 2013 AFC Cup and in yesterday’s group stage draw they were placed in Group E along with Singapore Cup winners Singapore Armed Forces FC, Hong Kong champions FC Kitchee and Indonesian champions Semen Padang. With the Nehru Stadium in Margao closed next year at the time of the AFC Cup group stage due to redevelopment work, Churchill Brothers are forced to play their home matches at Pune’s Balewadi Sports Complex.
Churchill Brothers SC patron Churchill Alemao, taking a dig at rivals Dempo SC said, “It’s important for us to keep the Goan and Indian flag flying high no matter what it costs us! We are absolutely pleased to give our players a life time opportunity to play against some of Asia’s best teams which will only help Indian football in the long run.”
The preliminary group surely is good exposure for Churchill Brothers squad and moving into the knockout stage is surely possible.
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