Bangladesh, who suffered defeat in their opening match against Lebanon, today’s match turned into a final to remain on semifinal race. While Maldives, who won their first match against Nepal by 2-0, a draw is enough in today’s match for them to qualify in the semifinal.
Bangladesh captain Jamal Bhuiyan is aware of the circumstances, as he stressed that all his charges can do is to give their all and not worry about anything else as they prepare to meet the Maldives.
Jamal, however, termed the match as a crucial one as well as a final, as they could not win their first match against Lebanon, so no chances would left for them to qualify in the semifinal if they will fail to win the match.
According to a video message received here from Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF).
“I think we played good football against Lebanon in our first match but we lost concentration in the last fifteen minutes and received two goals, overall we were happy for our performances,” said the Bangladesh skipper.
“Boys will fight against the strong side will found the going tough, it can be very challenging to bounce back after experiencing the last match defeat, he said. “However, we have the necessary staff to aid in our recovery.”
“In the second half, we had better controlled in the possession but we couldn't score, so it was a regretful (result) for us, but we will have to forget about it, now we are concentrating on Maldives match, as all we know it like a final.”
“Actually, to score goal not only the responsibility of striker, anybody can score to win a match, it’s not fair to blame strikers.”
Sohel Rana, one of the playmakers of the team also called the match against Maldives a final and anyway they will have to win the match.
“We want to forget the last match, now we want to focus on next match, because it’s final for us. Anyway we will have to win the match if we want to remain on the semifinal race,” said Sohel Rana. Meanwhile, Coach Javier Cabrera said that they are not demoralized despite the defeat against Lebanon, as he said, “Definitely important game because they have three points and we none, we actually have to depend ourselves, we have to win. The atmosphere is fine, thee will be tough fight but I do believe we will achieve.” “We are ready and I believe we are on right plan, to achieve that, to score goals and win match.” “No, I think we will not go for one point that is risky because they have three points, we have none, so tomorrow’s game becomes crucial, said Cabrera.”
“The team is more and more united and have belief of winning game.”
