I-League 2018: Dudu Omagbemi nets four as his unlucky jersey No.44 proves him wrong

What's the story?

Nigerian striker Dudu Omagbemi scored four goals for East Bengal in their I-League fixture against Chennai City FC on Saturday afternoon and took his team towards touching distance of the championship. Although he was amazed to receive the jersey no: 44 when he arrived at the club this season, yet he thought the number was unlucky but he was wrong.

In case you didn't know...

East Bengal scripted a thumping victory over Chennai City FC with a score line of 7-1 in their favor. Dudu Omagbemi was the star of the show scoring four times. Syrian recruit Mahmoud Amna opened the goal fest in the 20th minute, while an own goal doubled the lead three minutes later. Dudu scored the rest of the goals saving the last one which went to the credit of substitute Gabriel Fernandes.

The heart of the matter

During the post-match press conference, he said,

” I was surprised when I came here I was given the jersey No.44 and didn’t know what was that supposed to mean but I had to accept it. The last time when I here I was wearing the No.15 shirt but this time no one was using that number and I had to wear 44. I was thinking, may it was not a lucky jersey, but you just have to be positive and I was waiting for these days.”

The veteran feels that dedication, professionalism and staying fit are the key aspects of success even at the age of 32. He strongly believes if they continue playing this way, East Bengal will win the league.

What's next?

Khalid Jamil and Co. now have 9 days in hand before they play their away match against Shillong Lajong on March 5. They will have ample time to prepare themselves for the away tie. If they manage to grab three points in that fixture, it will make their final match against NEROCA FC an exciting one.

Author's take

The red and gold brigade is moving closer and closer to the title, two wins in their remaining matches will brighten their chances even more. Even if Minerva Punjab FC loses a point in their remaining matches, East Bengal will be in an advantageous position with a superior goal difference and a better head to head record. This is the best opportunity for the Kolkata giants to grab its maiden I-League title.