South China hope Mahama Awal will be fit for AFC Cup test
Hosts South China must clinch victory over Indian side Bengaluru to ensure a quarter-final spot
South China are hoping their speedy winger Mahama Awal can recover in time as they face the biggest test in their 2015 AFC Cup campaign when they take on visitors Bengaluru of India at Mong Kok Stadium on Tuesday ngiht.
The Caroliners achieved a 100 per cent record in winning all their six group matches in the regional cup tie, the only team across all eight groups to do that, and finished top of their group, earning them the home ground advantage for the round-of-16 tie.
I know it is very important and it's up to the coach to make the final decision
But this could mean nothing if they fail to beat the Indian side in this one-off match in which a victory will put them into the quarter-finals to take place in late August.
One of the Caroliners' key players, Awal, however, may not be available due to the resurgence of a knee problem after a tough battle against Eastern in a play-off game last week. The Cameroonian has not trained since that match.
"I want to play," said Awal, who has scored three goals in the regional competition.
"I know it is very important and it's up to the coach to make the final decision."