Bangladesh national football team has moved its training base to the Bashundhara Kings Arena, seeking uninterrupted preparation for their upcoming Asian Cup Qualifiers against Nepal and India.
The shift from the Dhaka National Stadium, currently hosting the Asian Archery Championships, allows coach Javier Cabrera’s squad to focus fully on their final two matches.
With the high-stakes India fixture looming, the team atmosphere is one of determined focus, undeterred by the news of India’s own squad reinforcements.
When asked about India’s inclusion of two new foreign-born players, Coach Cabrera presented a picture of steadfast composure.
“India is one of those teams that has taken a long time to bring in foreign-born footballers. Now they have two new players,” Cabrera stated. “From our perspective, the match will be equally challenging. It does not mean a big change in our way of preparation. This is a big match and a big challenge for us.”
His comments underscore a strategy focused on internal strength rather than external threats.
Bangladesh camp has seen its own changes, with the call-up of Cuba Mitchell and Morshed Ali. Cabrera explained the decision came after injuries to Ibrahim and Rahmat, creating an opportunity for players they have monitored for some time.
“We know his talent very well,” Cabrera said of Mitchell. “We wanted him to play a few more matches, which is why he was not called up for so long. But we are confident he will improve gradually.”
Captain Topu Barman was more effusive in his praise for his Bashundhara Kings teammate. “The way he takes the ball and shoots is a real plus point for our team,” Barman said.
He highlighted Mitchell’s prowess in and around the box as a “positive side” that could directly translate into goals. “His ball control is a very positive thing for our teammates,” Barman added.
Addressing concerns that late-arriving club players might disrupt rhythm, Captain Barman was unequivocal. “We have all been playing together for a long time. I don’t think we are unfamiliar with anyone,” he asserted.
He dismissed the notion that the team would face any significant problem reintegrating, citing their existing strong understanding.
Despite being out of the running for qualification, Barman insisted the team is highly motivated, especially for the India match.
“If we win both matches consecutively, we will definitely improve our ranking,” he said. “This is a great opportunity after a long time, and India is playing on our soil after many years. We don’t want to let this opportunity slip.”
He identified concentration lapses, not a lack of winning habit, as the reason for recent late match disappointments. “We need to be more focused and responsible. We don’t want to give India any small opportunities. We don’t want to lose, we want to win.”
Team Manager Amer Khan confirmed that overseas-based players Hamza and Shamit are scheduled to arrive on the 10th and 11th respectively. The team will have access to the Bashundhara Kings Arena for training until the 12th, holding their final combined session there before facing Nepal on the 13th.
