Indian Super League (ISL) club East Bengal FC will lock horns against Altyn Asyr FC in the inaugural AFC Asian Champions League (ACL) Two Preliminary Stage match on Wednesday at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata. Returning to the Asian competition after a hiatus of nine long years, the Red and Gold Brigade could advance to the ACL Two Group Stage in the West Zone if they manage to secure a win against the Turkmenistan side in the forthcoming knockout fixture.

Founded in 2008, Altyn Asyr FC finished second in the Yokary Liga, the top tier in Turkmen football, last season. The Signalmen currently find themselves in the second spot in the league with 37 points from 16 matches.

Since making their AFC Cup debut in the 2015 season, Altyn Asyr FC have consistently displayed standout performances in the continental tournament. Moreover, they men became the first team from Turkmenistan to reach the finals of the prestigious AFC Cup.

With that, here's a closer look at Altyn Asyr FC, one of the most consistent teams in Turkmenistan.

History

Since their inception, Altyn Asyr FC have achieved several successful feats in the last 16 years. The Turkmenistan club clinched the Yokary Liga title for the record eight times and have been consistent with their performances.

Besides the league, the Signalmen emerged victorious in the Turkmenistan Super Cup (eight times), the Turkmenistan Cup (five times), and the Turkmenistan President's Cup (two times). Hojageldyýew's men also finished runners-up in the 2018 AFC Cup.

Significantly, the Turkmenistan head coach has been associated with the club since 2014 and has formed a formidable squad over the past couple of years.

Head-to-Head Record

The two sides are set to face each other for the first time.

Form Guide

Last 5 Matches – W W W W D

Altyn Asyr FC are unbeaten in their last five matches and have won their last four consecutive matches. The Signalmen are gaining positive momentum, which could be pivotal ahead of their knockout clash.

Hojageldyýew's men have secured big-margin wins in their last outings. They won 4-1 against FC Aşgabat, 6-0 against Energetik Mary, and 5-2 against Mere, showcasing their offensive prowess.

The Turkmenistan side suffered their last defeat in May against the Yokary Liga toppers Arkadag, where they lost by a 4-2 margin.

Key Players

Didar Durdyýew

Didar Durdyýew has proved himself one of the mainstays in Altyn Asyr FC’s squad and is known for his goal-scoring prowess. The forward won the Golden Boot award three times in the league and has been one of the best strikers in the Turkmenistan League for the last five seasons.

Selim Nurmuradov

Selim Nurmuradov, who mainly plays as a left winger but can also operate as a forward, is an integral part of Altyn Asyr FC’s offensive unit. With his rapid speed, precise crossing, and sharp movements with the ball, the dynamic forward could be an X-factor for Hojageldyýew's team.

Match Details

Fixture: East Bengal FC vs Altyn Asyr FC

Date: August 14, 2024

Time: 7 PM

Venue: Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata

Telecast: Zee 24 Ghanta TV and Zee 24 Ghanta YouTube Channel