Hosts geared up to face Malaysia
Dhaka, January 28: Bangladesh takes on Malaysia in the opening match of the Bangabandhu Gold Cup at the Sylhet Stadium at 5:00 pm on Thursday.
Bangladesh coach Saiful Bari Titu expressed confidence ahead of the tie. “Our playing style is to build up, quick play, quick interchange of passes, quick defending after losing possession from the attack and not giving the opponents enough space,” informed Titu who has acted as the head and guided the team since the preparations began.
“The fitness of the players has reached a good level. Our main target is to perform on the given match day and it is important for us to win the first match as it will smoothen our way to the semifinals. We want to start the campaign with a victory,” he said, hinting of fielding a 4-3-3 formation.
Meanwhile, Malaysia head coach Mohamed Razip Ismail revealed he has no idea of their today's opponent and in a way does not even expect his new side to upset the hosts.
“We assembled this side for AFC U-23 Qualifiers. So, we consider this tournament as part of our preparation. To be frank, I have no idea about Bangladesh team and never seen them play but I think they are a good side. There are quality players in the national team. I also think they prepared very well for this tournament,” he said.