East Bengal FC is set to face Altyn Asyr FC from Turkmenistan in a crucial AFC Champions League 2 preliminary stage match on August 14 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. A victory is essential for East Bengal to secure a spot in the group stage, while a loss would relegate them to the AFC Challenger League. This match marks East Bengal's return to continental football after a nearly nine-year absence, having last competed in the AFC Cup in 2015. Under the guidance of coach Carles Cuadrat, the team has shown promise in recent competitions, winning the Kalinga Super Cup and performing well in the Durand Cup. Cuadrat emphasizes the challenge ahead, acknowledging Altyn Asyr's consistent performance in Asian football. Fans can follow live updates of the match through various broadcasting channels, including Zee 24 Ghanta.