However, with Pune FC put out by Vasco on Thursday and Mumbai advancing with a 3-2 tie-breaker win over Indian Bank, Chennai pre-tournament hopes of a dream final stands the order at the Bharati Vidyapeeth ground on Saturday.

Undoubtedly both finalists have been impressive. And though both have played just two matches enroute to the final, Vasco — whose history dates back to 1951 when the club was founded — have the edge quite evident from the experience they possess.

Mumbai FC (MFC) on the other hand is only six-months old and unlike Vasco — in their third final this year — is playing their maiden tournament outside their base. Says Mumbai FC coach David Booth,

"Vasco are slight favourites," and backs his claim by saying: "They (Vasco) are used to these situations. For the team, it's a first time new, which in a way can also turnout to be our strength in future. The only worry is me since I know what Vasco are about."

The Englishman couldn't be wrong with the reading, for it was in 2003 — at Mahindra United — that he began following Vasco as part of his job in the National Football League.

On the other hand, Booth's counterpart Robert Fernandes respects MFC. "They sure are serious contenders and cannot be taken lightly," he says.

While the encounter for both teams is important considering that both are challengers in the Second Division I League both coaches agree the tournament was a blessing in disguise overall.

Victory for either team would translate into confidence ahead of their mission: the I League. With Fernandes already tasting maiden success — when the team won the Oil India tournament at Assam — it would be up to Booth and MFC to open their 'success' account.

Having traditionally partonised Brazillian players, Vasco, with Liciano Sabrosa, Jefferson Rocha and Roberto Bressa in their ranks will be tested by an equally skillful Ghanian trio of James Cobblah Dissiramah, Felix Aboagye and Michael Osei, which undoubtedly is something to look out for. And not forgetting, MFC have a side packedwith six former India internationals, apart from Abhishek Yadav.

Between Vasco and MFC, Vasco have been aggressive and creative "on field." Sample this: Vasco have scored eight, while Mumbai have scored two and conceded one. However, one must say that Vasco's count would have been in double digits had it not been for the chances they missed against Pune FC in the semis.

So does scoring worry the coaches? Booth says: "No complaints. Just that against quality teams, scoring is important." Fernandes on the other hand says: "We have begun creating goals, which is a good sign," referring to the game and adds: "So far, our run has been a mix… ability to score and then ability to create."

MFC, which lost midfelder Jagdish Pappaih in their last match against Indian Bank due to a suspension would be back to full strength. But ask Booth about injuries, and he sums up in a jiffy: "A couple of guys got knocked… but nothing serious. They are expected to practice." Vasco in same vein have "many players who can fit in the scheme of things," as Fernandes put it. However, one worry is that of medio Jose Colaco, who apparently is not totally fit.

Having made it to the final, the odds — going by experience and their respective run-ups to the final — favour Vasco. MFC on the other hand have one factor that tilts the balance back to equilibrium, which is the fact that they will be crowd favourites, now that Pune FC are out.