First 3 matches most important: Barreto

The first three matches of the second phase of the I-League will decide the eventual champions,feels Jose Ramirez Barreto.

The first three matches will be very important. If we can win all of them,we have a definite chance to win the title, said the Mohun Bagan ace.

Today Bagan left for Mumbai to play their match against Mumbai FC on Friday.

Mumbai FC beat the Kolkata giants at Barasat Stadium in the first phase. The green-and-maroons aim to settle the score at Cooperage.

What I can assure is that the boys will give honest efforts, said coach Karim Bencherifa. He admitted that Mumbai FC at home would be a tough proposition.

Bagan are currently placed second in the I-League standings. They will miss central midfielder Rakesh Masih,out suspended. Lalkamal Bhowmick will take his place. The latter is pretty upbeat after getting an offer from an American Major League Soccer (MLS) club. At the moment,however,his prime target is to give a consistent performance and help his side win the I-League.

Bagan hope that their Brazilian midfielder Marcos Pereira will continue with his good form in the second phase as well. He is the vital cog in Bagan midfield and conducts the show with his all round game.

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And there is Baichung Bhutia,with his new hairdo. For Bagan to keep their momentum going,he has to fire.

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