Bangladesh has announced its preliminary squad for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers, featuring Hamza Chowdhury and Fahmedul Islam in their first call-ups. Chowdhury, a seasoned midfielder from Sheffield United, aims to enhance the squad’s midfield, while Fahmedul, a forward from Italy, brings attacking potential. Both join the team as they prepare for a crucial match against India for a place in the Asian Cup 2027.
Bangladesh’s preliminary squad for the qualification rounds of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 features two new additions: Hamza Chowdhury and Fahmedul Islam. Hamza, an English-born midfielder from Sheffield United, is poised to enhance the national team’s midfield with his European experience. Fahmedul, a forward based in Italy, is expected to inject fresh attacking options into the squad, underscoring the BFF’s initiative to scout overseas talents of Bangladeshi descent.
Both players’ selections are significant, with Chowdhury’s long-awaited eligibility established after discussions between the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) and FIFA. His decision to represent Bangladesh stems from a strong familial connection to the country, and fans are enthusiastic about his potential impact following his prior experience in top-tier English football.
The upcoming qualifier against India is drawing considerable attention as both teams strive for a place in the prestigious AFC Asian Cup 2027. This match poses a critical challenge for head coach Javier Cabrera, who must effectively merge his squad’s domestic talents with the new international players to enhance performance on the field.
The comprehensive preliminary roster includes:
Goalkeepers: Mitul Marma (Abahani Ltd. Dhaka), Sujon Hossain (Mohammedan SC Ltd.), Anisur Rahman (Bashundhara Kings), Mehedi Hasan Srabon (Bashundhara Kings), Shakib Al Hasan (Mohammedan SC Ltd.).
Defenders: Murad Hasan (Abahani Ltd. Dhaka), Mehedi Hassan (Mohammedan SC Ltd.), Shakil Ahad Topu (Mohammedan SC Ltd.), Rahmat Mia (Brothers Union Ltd.), Sakil Hossain (Abahani Ltd. Dhaka), Isa Faysal (Bangladesh Police FC), Taj Uddin (Rahmatgonj MFS), Tariq Kazi (Bashundhara Kings), Topu Barman (Bashundhara Kings), Saad Uddin (Bashundhara Kings), Sushanto Tripura (Brothers Union Ltd.), Yeasin Khan (Abahani Ltd. Dhaka), Jahid Hasan Shanto (Mohammedan SC Ltd.).
Midfielders: Md Ridoy (Abahani Ltd. Dhaka), Papon Singh (Abahani Ltd. Dhaka), Syed Shah Quazem (Bangladesh Police FC), Md Sohel Rana (Bashundhara Kings), Sohel Rana (Bashundhara Kings), Chandan Roy (Bashundhara Kings), Mohbubur Rahman Jony (Bashundhara Kings), Shekh Murselin (Bashundhara Kings), Jamal Bhuyan (Brothers Union Ltd.), Hamza Chowdhury (Sheffield United, England).
Forwards: Faysal Ahmed Fahim (Bashundhara Kings), Rakib Hossain (Bashundhara Kings), Rabby Hossen Rahul (Bashundhara Kings), Rafiqul Islam (Bashundhara Kings), Emon Shariah (Abahani Ltd. Dhaka), Mohammad Ibrahim (Abahani Ltd. Dhaka), Arif Hossain (Mohammedan SC Ltd.), Al Amin (Bangladesh Police FC), Piash Ahmed Nova (Fortis FC Ltd.), Fahmedul Islam (Olbia Calcio FC, Italy).
The AFC Asian Cup is one of the key tournaments for Asian football, and the qualifiers provide nations the chance to compete on an international level. The inclusion of players born and raised abroad, like Hamza Chowdhury and Fahmedul Islam, is part of a broader effort to strengthen the Bangladeshi national football team by integrating diverse talent. This approach allows the BFF to enhance the squad’s overall competitiveness in future international matches.
The Bangladeshi national football team’s preparation for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers emphasizes the integration of both domestic and international players. The debut of Hamza Chowdhury and the selection of Fahmedul Islam could bring valuable experience and new dynamics to the team as they approach a critical matchup against India. Overall, this initiative reflects the BFF’s commitment to elevating the national team’s performance on the global stage.
Original Source: www.tbsnews.net