This was aptly reflected in their revival in the Federation Cup — they went on to win the tournament after the defeat in the group league against Vasco. Then the coach and the players worked in concert to ensure another revival, in the I-League.

But now the day of reckoning has arrived. The match against Churchill Brothers in Goa tomorrow is likely to decide the course of this I-League.

There is nothing apart from the goal difference that separates the two teams. Both have 33 points, but Churchill have their nose in front, thanks to their goal machine Okolie Odafa.

In the first-leg in Kolkata, the Bagan defenders have marked him well. Problem is apart from Deepak Mondal, the defence is very inconsistent. It would be a challenge for Bencherifa to set the defence organisation right.

“Not only Odafa, we have to be very careful about everybody. They have two top scorers of the I-League. So, we have to mark Odafa tight and at the same time, have to keep an eye on Felix as well. They have some energetic boys. But they have their weaknesses, while we our strong point is our consistency,” Bencherifa told The Indian Express after team’s practice session in Margao today.

The coach is set to ring in a couple of changes to the side that lost against East Bengal last match. Lalkamal Bhowmick and Shylo Malswmtlunga are likely to replace Rakesh Masih and James Singh respectively. “Almost same set of players are playing for last two months. Maybe, it’s time for some fresh legs,” Bencherifa said.

That Baichung Bhutia would be unavailable, out suspended, is a major concern for Bagan. You don’t want to lose a big player in a big match. PC Lalawmpuia will pair up with Jose Barreto upfront. And may be it’s time to unleash Branco Cardozo. The youngster has made very little contribution this season owing to his hamstring injury. He has been included in the squad for this match. Though short on match practice, it’s time for Cardozo to go full throttle when he will come in as a substitute.