Bangladesh is preparing for a crucial AFC Asian Cup qualifier against India on March 25. Head coach Javier Cabrera has announced a 38-member training squad, with a training camp in Saudi Arabia planned. Indian coach Manolo Márquez is also focusing on the qualifiers after a difficult year. Both teams are determined to perform well.
The Bangladesh national football team has initiated preparations for their vital AFC Asian Cup qualifier against India on March 25 in Shillong. Indian head coach Manolo Márquez has yet to disclose a probable squad, as players focus on the conclusion of the ISL league phase. Meanwhile, Bangladesh, guided by Spanish head coach Javier Cabrera, has already announced a 38-member squad and commenced training on Friday in their home country.
As part of their preparation, the Bengal Tigers will travel to Saudi Arabia for a two-week training camp, returning to Bangladesh on March 18 to finalize their strategies before heading to Shillong. Notably, former Leicester City and current Sheffield United midfielder Hamza Choudhury is set to join the team later, as he is engaged in EFL Championship matches until March 16.
Bangladeshi players are keen to leverage Choudhury’s top-flight football experience. “We are ready to welcome Hamza Choudhury,” said defender Topu Barman, emphasizing their desire to help him adapt to their playing style and learn from him. Cabrera expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “He is very excited, highly motivated, and looking forward to both the camp and the match against India. His presence brings a lot of energy and a strong competitive mindset to the team.”
Another intriguing inclusion is Bangladeshi-Italian player Fahamedul Islam from Olbia Calcio, who is expected to join after March 10, following his club’s last league outing before the international break. As Bangladesh gears up, India faces its own set of challenges in Group C against Hong Kong and Singapore, aiming for a strong showing after not qualifying directly for the Asian Cup.
Despite their struggles last year, India has shown improvement under Márquez, who replaced Igor Štimac, obtaining draws in friendlies against Malaysia and Vietnam. The upcoming qualifier against Bangladesh marks Márquez’s first official competitive match with the team this year. Prior to facing Bangladesh, India will play a friendly against the Maldives on March 19 to further their preparations.
In summary, the Bangladesh football team is diligently preparing for their AFC Asian Cup qualifier against India, having named a large squad and scheduled a training camp in Saudi Arabia. The inclusion of experienced players like Hamza Choudhury aims to bolster team performance, while India also prepares strategically for their return to competitive action under a new head coach.
Original Source: revsportz.in
