But with rain pouring heavily in the country's south-western metropolitan city the penultimate round cast a gloomy ride over the next five days despite enormous enthusiasm among the local football fans.

The pitch of the 11000-capacity stadium had gone under ankle deep water yesterday and with more rain forecast in the next few days Khulna is going to suffer the same embarrassment like Mymen-singh, which hosted the first leg last month on a virtual paddy field because of rain.

But even if it rains or shines, there will be no time for Brothers and Russel to relax. They will not only fight for Group B supremacy but also renew that rivalry they had left off in the Premier League last year.

Although Brother pipped Russel to the title, it was the newcomers who won their Premier League battle against the men in Orange.

Meanwhile, the local organisers are trying their best to dry out the surface before the match kicks off at 4pm. Bangladesh Television will provide live coverage of the crucial game.

Khulna, which is hosting the National League for the third time, wore a festive look with colourful banners hanging and posters pasted at several points in the city. An advisory Committee, an organising committee and nine sub committees have been formed to make it a grand success.

It is also an important phase before the 12 participating teams moves to Chittagong to play the final leg. The seven matches to be played here will outline who are the six teams, three from each group, to qualify for the Super Six.

The Russel boys are currently leading Group B with seven points from three games. Brothers on the other hand have maximum six points from two games. Mohamme-dan Sporting Club, who drew their last game against Russel, with four points from two matches are other Super Six contenders from this group.

Abahani Krira Chakra are the runaway leaders of Group A with maximum nine points from three games. Defending champions Muktijoddha Sangsad hold the second position with six points. They however played one match less than Abahani.

Meanwhile, general secretary of Khulna District Sports Association (KDSA) Moniruzzaman Moni hoped that Khulna will live up to its reputation as a hospitable host like the last two editions of the NFL.

All the participating teams have already reached the city.

The rate of tickets have been fixed at Tk 20 (Western gallery) and Tk 10 (Eastern gallery).