Brazilians arrive to add strength to Mahindras

Olivera (21), disclosed Menezes, ‘‘has already arrived and is ready to be fielded’’. However, in case of Almeida — who has also been part of reputed Brazilian clubs Flumense and Palmeiras — ‘‘we are awaiting his international transfer certificate clearance’’.

Which means that if by Thursday these necessary documents do not come, only Rodrigues will be fielded against Chruchill Brothers in the series opener at home on Friday.

On Okoro, Menezes expresses confidence, saying: ‘‘He will eventually play for us.’’

This is not the first occasion when Brazillians have worn the Mahindras shirts at the NFL. In 2002. Nei Junior was roped in mid-way into the season.

The Mumbai outfit have also released Ghanaian defender Odartey Lawson and striker Charles Asamoah, and striker Raphael Akakpo Patron from Togo who did duty for the team last season.

Bagan hold EB

KOLKATA: Mohun Bagan put up a spirited display to hold defending champions East Bengal to a goalless draw in the inaugural match of the ninth National Football League here today. Wresting the initiative from their dreaded arch-rivals, Bagan played their hearts out to share honours in the Salt Lake Stadium exchange.