Bangladesh will host India in an AFC Asian Cup qualifier at Dhaka National Stadium on Tuesday, 18 November, and on Monday both teams met the media at a pre-match press conference at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel where India coach Khalid Jamil confirmed preparations are under way but left the availability of Ryan Williams unresolved. Jamil said his side trained in Bangalore and will use the players who are available, praising Bangladesh as a strong opponent and stressing that his team must take responsibility on the big occasion. He also described the National Stadium pitch as very good.
Jamil kept his answers measured and pragmatic throughout the session. He emphasised that India will prepare for both scenarios regarding Williams. “We are preparing for both. If he arrives, we will welcome him. If he does not, we will move on with those available,” he said. He added that the squad’s newer faces understand the match’s importance and are working hard to perform.
The coach repeatedly underlined Bangladesh’s quality and home advantage. “Bangladesh are a very good team with quality players,” he said. “They have shown plenty of improvement at home and away. We must not take them lightly.” He refused to focus on a single opponent, saying India will plan for the whole team rather than tailor tactics to one man.
Jamil acknowledged the pressure that comes with high-profile regional fixtures. “There is pressure. At an important moment everyone must take responsibility and work hard to get a positive result,” he said. He stressed that India’s approach remains consistent match to match: keep preparations simple, concentrate on tomorrow’s game and build from there.
Assistant coach Shahid, who noted the squad’s camp in Bangalore, said the team had prepared well. When asked about training rituals, Jamil explained the staff often hold a light session on the morning before a game and saw no need to change routine for this fixture.
The unresolved status of Ryan Williams hung over the conference and will shape India’s final selection. Jamil’s insistence on readiness if Williams arrives suggests the coach values the player, but he made clear India have contingency plans. With both nations already out of Asian Cup qualification on paper, the game remains a South Asian derby that carries pride and local bragging rights.
Match details and team news will crystallise in the hours ahead. For now, Dhaka expects a competitive encounter between neighbours with India cautious about a late call on Williams and Bangladesh eager to assert regional superiority on home soil.
