Pune FC run into Nay Pyi Taw

Pune FC would look to keep their hopes of qualifying for AFC Cup knock-out stage alive when they take on Myanmar side Nay Pyi Taw in a crucial Group H round-5 encounter at the Paung Luang Stadium here on Tuesday.

 

Going into the game on the back of two consecutive losses at home in different competitions, Pune will be keen to shrug off their disappointing run and seek their first ever win on the continental stage.

 

With their qualification hopes now hanging by a thread, Pune (4th with two points) will hope to bounce back to winning ways after losing back-to-back games against Singapore’s Tampines Rovers at the turn over point of the group stage.

 

On the other hand, Nay Pyi Taw (third with four points) too come into the game on the back of a disappointing run in the competition. 

After drawing their opening game 2-2 in Pune, Nay Pyi Taw beat Tampines in Myanmar before losing back-to-back games against group leaders Kitchee SC at home and away.

Tuesday’s clash will be an equally crucial one for both sides to keep their aspirations of a second place finish alive.

Nay Pyi Taw are currently sitting on top of Myanmar National League with six wins in nine games and will hope to bring that form onto the continental stage.

 

The hosts will be banking heavily on Italian striker Michele Di Piedi (six goals) and Aung Kyaw Naing (four goals) to deliver the goods.