BD ready for a very tough match
Dhaka, September 4: A rejuvenated Bangladesh will face Pakistan in the last match of group A in the SAFF Championship at Armed Forces Ground, Kathmandu at 3:45 pm on Thursday.
Bangladesh have been hit by another injury blow as acting skipper Nasiriuddin is uncertain for the match. Nasir sustained a big cut in his forehead as Indian skipper Sunil Chettry’s elbow hit him in the forehead and three stitches were required for the treatment.
Arfiul Islam is expected to take Nasiruddin’s place and coach Lodewijk de Kruif may come out with different strategy. “Pakistan is a strong team with matured players and they will come out to win the match, the players are motivated to show their best and all I can say that we have to win this match” said de Kruif.
De Kruif said it would be tough to play two tough matches within three days as one day rest is not enough. “We have to go through by the fixture but it’s tough to play Pakistan after playing India yesterday, however the same applies to Pakistan also and they have to cope with that” said the Dutch man.
“I want to see the players carry the momentum of their last match and it may become tougher than India” added de Kruif.
Pakistani coach Shahzad Anwar termed the match would be a do or die battle. “We will take the field to win the match and to remain alive in the meet, win is our prime target and we know Bangladesh is boosted up with the draw against India, we are not taking anything granted we want to fight and win” said Shahzad.
Bangladesh have to win by at least two goals and hope India beaten by Nepal in the other match of the group that will be held at the same time.