East Bengal coach Anthony Andrews: “The crowd’s support is the only advantage we can take from playing at home”
East Bengal FC Women head coach Anthony Andrews spoke to the media ahead of his side’s Group B opener against Ho Chi Minh City WFC in the 2026–27 AFC Women’s Champions League, with the match scheduled for November 1, 2026 at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata and a kick-off time of 8:00 PM IST. Andrews urged fans to turn out while warning that the visitors will be tough opponents.
East Bengal will begin their AWCL 2026–27 group-stage campaign at home on November 1, with all Group B fixtures hosted at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan between November 1 and 7. After facing Ho Chi Minh City WFC on November 1 they meet Hwacheon KSPO WFC of South Korea on November 4 and DPR Korean side 4.25 SC on November 7, with all three matches played at the same venue. The Indian champions reached the group stage for a second successive season by topping their preliminary-round group in Malaysia and are aiming to progress to the quarter-finals for the first time in the club’s history.
Opening his pre-match remarks Andrews thanked supporters and outlined his view of the challenge: "Firstly, I am grateful to see so many people turning up for women’s football. So, to everyone who has made this effort and come here with all their support, thank you so much for being here." He added: "As far as the game is concerned, we know that we are going to face a tough opponent. However, I am confident that we have done a good job with the time available to us. I hope we put our best foot forward tomorrow, approach the game positively and start our campaign on a positive note."
On adjustments made since last season and squad building, Andrews said: "I think there were a lot of takeaways from last season which helped us understand much better what the players can do at the bigger level." He also acknowledged the quicker pace at international level and said: "Obviously, the game is faster at the international level, and that’s why we have strengthened the squad this season. We have brought in a good number of foreign players, and we have worked really hard with them. I hope that they put everything on the pitch tomorrow."
Addressing the contrast in match readiness between the teams, Andrews observed: "As you mentioned, our opponents are the champions of their domestic league, which concluded last week. We are aware of them, and we have been watching their games as well. Obviously, it is a drawback for us that our league has not started yet." He added that the coaching staff had organised friendly matches to prepare the squad: "As far as the things within our control are concerned, we have played some good, friendly matches ahead of the tournament. So, we have done our job, and I hope we execute our plans well from tomorrow onwards."
On playing at home Andrews outlined a practical view of any advantage, saying: "When you play in this kind of format or these types of matches, the only advantage or difference can come from the fans turning up and encouraging the players." He continued: "That can be an advantage of playing at home. Other than that, I don't see any advantage, to be honest with you." Andrews confirmed selection would be revealed on matchday and repeated his appeal to supporters: "The crowd’s support is the only advantage we can take from playing at home. If you all come, it will give the girls an extra boost to keep pushing until the 90th minute. And, as I always say, if you come in huge numbers, we will make sure that when you go home, you leave with a smile."
Midfielder Sathi Debnath reiterated the squad’s determination and connection to the venue, saying: "Good afternoon, everyone. First of all, I would like to say that Kishore Bharati is always very special to me. I have won two trophies here on this ground. So, I will try to give my best here tomorrow. I would also like to request all the fans to come and support the team in tomorrow’s match." She reflected on last season’s near miss and the team’s focus: "Last season, we missed out on the quarter-finals by a whisker. But this time, we are trying to rectify those mistakes, take a step forward and reach the knockout stages." She added: "My coaching staff and I have worked very hard for this. So, I have told myself that we will give 100 per cent."
East Bengal’s Group B campaign begins on November 1, 2026 at 8:00 PM IST against Ho Chi Minh City WFC at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, with the match streamed live on the FanCode App; the team’s remaining group fixtures are against Hwacheon KSPO WFC on November 4 and 4.25 SC on November 7, both also at the same venue.