Amrinder Singh, the new custodian of Atletico De Kolkata (ATK) is on the block. The goalkeeper, who has been in brilliant form right from the beginning of the ISL, has conceded only 12 goals in 11 matches he had participated and made 34 saves so far in the League. And a day before his crucial first semifinal against Chennaiyin FC at Balewari Stadium in Pune, South African goalkeeping coach of ATK, Desi Baktaware seems confident that Amrinder will also make a cut in the semifinal defeating in a silent battle with his counterpart, Edel Bete, the Cameroonian goalkeeper.
Incidentally, Baktaware knows about Bete’s skill and weakness very well as this Cameroonian custodian was one of the key men in ATK’s triumph in the tournament last season. Baktaware, speaking on the issue said, “I know Bete’s strength and weakness both as I had trained him last season. Bete is no doubt, one of the best custodians in this ISL. But at the same time, I can promise that Amrinder who has developed impeccably in last two months through intensive training is going to offer a stiff challenge to Bete in tomorrow’s match.”
Asked about Bete’s strength, Baktaware clarified that Bete is very agile in one-to-one situation. South African goalkeeping coach also revealed saying, “He has little weakness in picking up ground shots. But Amrinder, despite being lanky is equally adept in collecting the shots both on the air and on the ground. The key strength Amrinder possesses is that he is tremendous courageous. That is why sometimes Amrinder can make almost impossible saves.” Bete also has conceded nine goals in the 10 matches he has participated. And Bete also has made 28 saves so far in the League. Now it is time for the first semifinal to watch who has the last laugh.