Bangladesh’s upcoming fixture against Bhutan will serve as more than just a warm-up. It’s a strategic testing ground — not only for player combinations but also for roles and match rhythm under testing weather conditions.
Tactically, Bangladesh are expected to stick with their preferred 4-2-3-1 formation. The system, known for its defensive solidity and flexibility in transition, allows the team to adapt — whether that means sitting deep and countering quickly or building patiently through midfield.
At the core of this formation lies the double pivot, likely to be formed by Hamza Choudhury and Mohammad Ridoy. The pair will be central to shielding the defence and launching attacks. It’s a role where the system truly breathes, and for Hamza in particular, the presence of Shamit Shome ahead of him could be transformative.
In the previous outing against India, Hamza was often left to cover vast swathes of the pitch on his own, without a reliable outlet in advanced midfield. Shome, with his technical composure and ability to receive vertical passes, offers that link — someone capable of controlling tempo and connecting lines. His inclusion brings much-needed stability for Hamza and, by extension, injects creativity into a previously disjointed midfield.
Another important piece in the middle of the park is captain Jamal Bhuiyan. While he is expected to feature against Bhutan, his role in the Singapore match remains uncertain. If selected, he could operate deeper, potentially rotating with Ridoy or used situationally depending on the game state. His leadership, pressing ability, and expansive passing range remain invaluable — especially in managing key moments late in the game.
Up front, Al Amin is set to lead the line, marking a return to a traditional No. 9 after Bangladesh experimented with a strikerless setup post-SAFF 2023. The Bhutan fixture will be crucial for him to settle and build chemistry with the rest of the attacking unit ahead of the sterner test against Singapore.
Out wide, the left flank offers a window into Bangladesh’s tactical intentions. Should Fahmedul be deployed in a more advanced role, it would signal a desire to play proactively and stretch the game. A natural wing-back, his pace and work rate provide both width and defensive cover. He could be partnered with Shahriar Emon, offering a fluid and versatile left-sided option.
Rakib Hossain is expected to feature on the right, bringing his trademark directness and high energy. Meanwhile, Sheikh Morsalin will be hoping for a chance to make his mark, likely off the bench.
Defensively, Topu Barman is set to anchor the backline alongside Tariq Kazi, with Isa Faysal and Taj Uddin slotting in as full-backs. While the right-back position remains open to rotation, Taj will be eager to cement his place. After a standout Bashundhara BPL season — highlighted by four goals and six assists — he has shown he can offer as much going forward as he does defensively.
With eyes firmly set on the Singapore challenge, this match against Bhutan offers the perfect opportunity for Bangladesh to fine-tune their structure and solidify individual roles — laying the groundwork for what could be a decisive fixture in their campaign.
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GK: Mitul Marma
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RB: Shakil Ahad Topu
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CB: Topu Barman (C)
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CB: Tariq Kazi
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LB: Saad Uddin
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CDM: Hamza Choudhury
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CDM: Mohammad Ridoy
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RW: Rakib Hossain
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CAM: Shamit Shome
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LW: Fahmedul
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ST: Al Amin