Bangladesh national football team, set to face Bhutan on Thursday in their first FIFA friendly match in Thimphu, have been struggling to adapt to the weather, environment, and even the pitch at the Changlimithang Stadium. The match is scheduled to take place at the Changlimithang Stadium at 6pm (BST).
Having arrived in Thimphu on Sunday, the Bangladeshi players have encountered significant challenges due to the altitude, with some players expressing concerns about breathing difficulties.
In a pre-match press conference on Wednesday, the head coach of the Bangladesh team acknowledged the numerous challenges in Thimphu, stating, “There are definitely challenges due to the high altitude. We are trying to adjust to the conditions. This is going to be a challenging game for us. We are ready and looking forward to the match. Bhutan are a strong side, especially at home where they are very dangerous. But we are determined to play better. We want a good result; Bhutan are a strong team, but we are here to win.”
The Spanish coach, who is pleased with the local hospitality, said, “We are very comfortable here, great hospitality. I think the weather will be difficult for us because we are suffering from breathing problems here.”
Team captain Jamal Bhuiyan, recognising Bhutan as a tough opponent, said they were ready to take on the hosts’ challenges. “Everybody is ready, fitness is good, and we hope it will be a good match. The matches will be very tough for us because we have not played any matches in the last three months. But we have had a good camp here.”
Jamal also mentioned that playing on the artificial turf would not be easy, but they were trying to adjust. “For the first time, we have practised on the artificial turf. The pitch is very fast, and everyone is facing problems in build-up play,” said Jamal.
However, the Bangladesh team remains optimistic about winning the matches.
