While the streets of Dhaka remain quiet during the Eid holidays, the National Stadium is alive with energy as the Bangladesh national football team prepares for a crucial World Cup qualifier against Singapore on 10 June. One of the most talked-about figures in the camp is Shamit Shome—a Canadian-born midfielder who is set to make his debut for Bangladesh.
Shome, who previously played two international matches for Canada, is now embracing a new chapter with the red and green. His arrival brings not only international experience but also renewed excitement and depth to the midfield. “I’m eager to play,” Shome told reporters before training on Thursday. “But right now, I’m concentrating on understanding how I can best help the team. The coach is providing a lot of information, and I’m doing my best to take it all in.”
The 26-year-old arrived in Dhaka on 4 June and immediately immersed himself in the team environment, watching Bangladesh’s 2–0 win over Bhutan from the stands. He was particularly impressed by what he saw. “The team played really well,” he said. “Now I want to be part of something even better.”
Shome was full of praise for Bangladesh’s midfield, which featured Hamza Chowdhury, Sohel Rana and captain Jamal Bhuiyan. “I really liked the midfield,” he said. “Hamza, Sohel bhai, Jamal bhai—all of them were fantastic. We created chances, and the defence didn’t allow Bhutan any real opportunities.”
He also singled out debutant Fahamidul Islam for his bold play. “He was courageous,” said Shome. “It’s great to see young players stepping up.”
Though still new to the squad, Shome already has a strong sense of the challenge ahead. Bangladesh will face a rejuvenated Singapore side, fresh off a 3–1 win over the Maldives, with striker Ikhsan Fandi scoring twice on his return from injury. Shome is well aware of the threat. “Fandi is definitely a danger,” he said. “As midfielders, we’re working on how we can support the defence to deal with players like him.”
Head coach Javier Cabrera has been encouraged by Shome’s early displays in training. “My first impression of him is very positive,” Cabrera said. “Now we need to see how he performs in a competitive match.”
The competition for places in midfield is fierce. Hamza and Jamal both played in more advanced roles against Bhutan, showing the tactical flexibility Cabrera now has at his disposal. Shome’s inclusion only intensifies the selection dilemma—but the coach views it as a positive problem. “It’s actually a great problem to have,” he said with a smile. “We now have strong competition in the squad, and that’s good for the team.”
Despite the pressure, Shome remains grounded. He’s focused on earning his place and contributing to a side he already believes in. “I’m just trying to fit in and do my job,” he said. “I want to help the team in any way I can.”
With a new chapter beginning, Shamit Shome’s journey in Bangladeshi football is just getting started.