Pune: DSK Shivajians - Liverpool International Football Academy is all set to mark another first when the club’s Under-17 team embarks for the 57th edition of the prestigious Subroto Cup International Football Tournament in New Delhi.
The tournament, primarily an inter-school tournament, will have 46 teams including international participation vie for honours in the junior section. DSK Shivajians-LIFA's campaign in the oldest youth football tournament at the all-India level begins against Kolkata’s Mohun Bagan AC on October 11.
Mizoram midfielder F. Malsawmtluanga has been named skipper of the 16-member DSK Shivajians-LIFA squad.
DSK Shivajians-LIFA is one among the four club teams from India participating in this league-cum-knock-out tournament.
Speaking ahead of the team’s departure, Coach Michael Rice said, "We are mentally focused for the highly competitive games that we have lined-up. The team spirit and unity amongst us is part of our characteristic, which we hope will take us far in the tournament. At the same time, we want our players to show professional attitude and determination throughout the tournament in order to progress and develop further."
DSK Shivajians FC are placed in Pool-G alongside Afganistan U17s, Clube Athletico Paraneanse, Brazil; Central Coast Mariners, Australia and Mohun Bagan AC.
The Team
Goalkeepers: C Vanlalhriata, Raja Hela
Defenders: Lalramchhuana, Seikhohao Haokip, Tapas Kumar Pal, Asraf Ali Mondal, Guidingstar Malieh
Midfielders: F Malsawmtluanga (Captain), H Zawnhmingthanga, Seigoumang Doungle, Laldawngkima, Omkar More, Sudipta Malakar, Batskhem Nongsiej
Strikers: Umer Sayed, C Lalremruata
Officials: Michael Rice (Head Coach), Ramesh Bist (Coach), Sanjeet Naik (Manager), Samip Shah (Physio)
Group Stage Schedule
Pool-G
Round 1 – 11/10/2016 – DSK Shivajians FC vs. Mohun Bagan AC – 2.00 PM IST
Round 2 – 12/10/2016 – DSK Shivajians FC vs. Afganistan U17 – 2.00 PM IST
Round 3 – 11/10/2016 – DSK Shivajians FC vs. Clube Athletico Paraneanse – 4.00 PM IST
Round 4 – 15/10/2016 – Central Coast Mariners vs. DSK Shivajians FC – 4.00 PM IST