“We’ll Stick to Our Plan and Play with Belief” — Pritam Kotal Ahead of the East Bengal Clash

Ray Sportz Web Desk: As Chennaiyin FC gear up to face East Bengal after a disappointing defeat to Mohun Bagan Super Giant, all eyes are on the team’s defensive leader, Pritam Kotal. Known for his composure, discipline, and experience, Pritam shares his thoughts on the team’s preparation, the mindset in the dressing room, and his perspective on Indian football’s current state.
In this exclusive conversation with Ray Sportz, the Chennaiyin FC defender opens up about bouncing back, facing Bengal’s biggest clubs, and staying true to team spirit.

Ray Sportz: After a loss against Mohun Bagan, how is the team preparing to make a comeback against East Bengal?
Pritam Kotal: We started the last game against MBSG with a positive mindset, and we want to approach the East Bengal match in the same way. There haven’t been many days to prepare, but we trained well today and are ready for tomorrow’s game. We are focused on improving our performance as a team and hopefully getting a good result.
Ray Sportz: You are still unbeaten against East Bengal. How do you look at this record?
Pritam Kotal: It’s not about me or any individual — football is a team game. We believe in our collective effort and always try to stick to our plan as a team.
Ray Sportz: As a Bengal footballer, how challenging is it to play or prove yourself against iconic clubs like Mohun Bagan or East Bengal?
Pritam Kotal: It always feels great to play against such big teams. But as a professional footballer, I have to prove myself every single day — not just in matches, but in training as well. It’s not about performing against any one particular club, it’s about consistently improving myself.
Ray Sportz: Both Chennaiyin FC and East Bengal are yet to win their first match. Do you see this as an added challenge?
Pritam Kotal: Every time we step onto the field, our main goal is to win. We couldn’t do that in the previous match, but we have another chance tomorrow. We’ll give our best, play our football with full commitment, and look to improve as a team. Whether it’s the first match or the last, our approach remains the same — we give everything.
Ray Sportz: East Bengal look stronger this season. Are you confident about stopping their attacking line?
Pritam Kotal: They definitely have a strong side, but we are confident in our own preparation. We’ll stick to our plan and play with belief. If we execute our strategy well, I’m sure we can handle their attacking threats effectively.
Ray Sportz: Indian football seems to be going through a period of uncertainty this year. What’s your take on it?
Pritam Kotal: Yes, this uncertainty is unexpected and quite unprecedented. But I’m hopeful things will only get better from here. As footballers, we just want to return to normal footballing days — and I believe that will happen soon.