ATK and Pune target first ISL points

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Kolkata, Novemmber 25: Defending champions ATK mark their return to the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan by welcoming FC Pune City in the ninth match of Hero Indian Super League on Sunday (November 26).

The Kolkata-based club would have been disappointed to not have picked up a victory in their opening fixture at Kochi against Kerala Blasters FC after tormenting their defence for much of the game. However, with a passionate crowd behind them, they would look to register their first win of the new season.

The Stallions, on the other hand, boast of one of the best attacking lineups on paper, but they left it late to score a couple in their previous match against Delhi Dynamos FC, which was ultimately not enough in their 3-2 defeat at home. Their first away fixture brings them one of the league's most formidable teams and they would want to get up and running with three precious points.

KEY PLAYERS

Zequinha (ATK)

The Portuguese forward was a thorn in the side of Kerala's defence in ATK's previous fixture. He created an opening almost every time the ball was at his feet. The 30-year-old was unlucky not to have scored as a sublime effort of his hit the woodwork, but he would look to have much of the same influence when the Stallions come calling.

Emiliano Alfaro (FC Pune City)

The Uruguayan striker, although at times subdued, was the focal point of Pune's attack against Delhi. He made some quick runs and frequently gave the defenders a hard time in dealing with him. He scored his team's first goal with a slick finish to cap off a superb solo effort and will want to ensure that he builds up with his form against ATK.

The match kicks off at 5.30 pm and is live on Star Sports 2.