Colombo FC has been forced to make crucial changes to the squad for the 2nd leg of the AFC Cup qualifier after the High Commission of India in Colombo has denied visa for their three foreign players.

With around 72 hours left for the 2nd leg between Mohun Bagan AC, Colombo FC were given a rude shock after finding out their three foreign players; Afis Olayemi, Nasiru Opayemi and Momas Yapo, have been denied visas which has sent their plans down the drain.

“We got to know about this the day before we were scheduled to leave,” owner of Colombo FC Saif Yusoof added.

“I believe the High Commission has laws denying entry to Africans, especially Nigerians, from Sri Lanka,” he went onto say.

The squad left for Kolkata today (5th Feb, Sunday) morning for their match on Tuesday against the Indian Giants. This left the coaching staff in a last minute scramble to re-write the plans, with just one practice session.

“It has been really hard as I have been forced to put together a new plan,” Head Coach Mohamed Roomy added.

“The three players play a vital role in defense, midfield and attack. Now I will have to replace them in a short period of time. However I have players who have played in those roles and will fit in nicely,” he added.

Defensive midfielder Momas Yapo and forward Afis Olayemi were outstanding for Colombo FC in the 1st leg and it will be interesting to see who will replace them in the final squad.

“We are hopeful of getting visa for Momas Yapo, who is from Ivory Coast, and if we get it he will join the team,” a hopeful Yusoof finally added. (TP)