Margao: Salgaocar Sports Club take on Chirag United Kerala in an I-League encounter at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Sunday (April 29). Salgaocar SC stays at 40 points from 24 matches while Chirag United Kerala are at 17 points from 24 outings.

The defending champions are already out of the title race and can, at best, finish second behind Dempo Sports Club. Coach Karim Bencherifa, however, is not getting into the calculations and have asked his side to first secure a home win against relegated Chirag Kerala.

“I know we don’t deserve to be where we are at the moment but believe me I am not even looking at the points table. All that I know is that we need to improve on our standings and the best way to do that is grab six points from the next two matches,” said Bencherifa.

Salgaocar have had a number of players injured for their last clash in the AFC Cup. Japanese striker Ryuji Sueoka has now fully recovered from injury and is expected to play a role against Chirag Kerala. The likes of Gilbert Oliveira and Augustine Fernandes will join Nigerian striker Edeh Chidi on the sidelines.

Chirag United Kerala are already relegated to the Second Division and will not have much at stake. Bencherifa, though, feels they will be much more dangerous.

“They do not have anything to lose so they will be dangerous. Also, you need to consider that some of the players will be looking to impress other clubs and what better way to do than a strong performance against a strong team like Salgaocar,” said Bencherifa.
Salgaocar Sports Club are targetting six points from their remaining two matches in the I-League and hoping they land as high as possible.