Bangladesh has started preparations for the AFC Asian Cup qualifier against India on March 25. They have named a 38-member squad and will conduct a training camp in Saudi Arabia. Players are eager to learn from experienced teammate Hamza Choudhury, while India also prepares for the match, having faced challenges recently.
The Bangladesh football team has officially commenced their preparations for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifier against India, scheduled for March 25 in Shillong. Under the leadership of Spanish head coach Javier Cabrera, the team has announced a 38-member squad and begun their training regimen in Bangladesh. Meanwhile, Indian coach Manolo Márquez has yet to disclose his squad as players focus on the concluding phase of the Indian Super League (ISL) season.
As part of their readiness, the Bengal Tigers will embark on a two-week training camp in Saudi Arabia before returning on March 18 to finalize their strategies prior to traveling to Shillong. A notable yet anticipated addition to the squad is Hamza Choudhury, a former Leicester City midfielder currently with Sheffield United. His participation is contingent upon his club commitments until March 16, after which he is expected to join the team.
Choudhury’s experience in top-tier English football is highly sought after by his teammates. Defender Topu Barman expressed eagerness to welcome him, saying, “We also want to help him acclimatise to our playing style and team philosophy. Moreover, we are looking forward to learning a lot from him, as he has played football at a higher level.” Coach Cabrera echoed this sentiment, expressing enthusiasm for Choudhury’s arrival and the energy he brings to the squad.
Another unexpected addition to the roster is Bangladeshi-Italian player Fahamedul Islam, who currently competes for Olbia Calcio in Italy’s lower division. Fahamedul is anticipated to join the squad post-March 10, following his club’s final league match before the international window.
In their qualifying journey, India faces a challenging set of opponents, having been grouped with Hong Kong and Singapore in Group C. Following a year devoid of victories, the Indian team, dubbed the Blue Tigers, seeks to capitalize on recent improvements under coach Márquez, who succeeded Igor Štimac. A friendly match against the Maldives on March 19 serves as a preparatory fixture before the clash with Bangladesh.
In summary, the Bangladesh national football team is actively preparing for their crucial AFC Asian Cup qualifier against India, with training camps and noteworthy player inclusions enhancing their efforts. India, while seeking redemption after a tough season, aims to leverage its recent progress as they gear up for competitive matches. Both teams are eager to establish their strength in the tournament, making this upcoming qualifier highly anticipated.
Original Source: revsportz.in
