Dhaka, February 7: A motivated Bangladesh faces a spirited Malaysia in the final of the Bangabandhu Gold Cup at the Bangabandhu National Stadium at 5:00 pm on Sunday. 

Malaysian squad, guided by coach Razip Ismail, defeated Bangladesh 1-0 in the opening Group A match last week but both the team intended to forget the past and focus on the mew match and the title decider in a new day. 

Bangladesh qualified for the final after edging Group B winners Thailand 1-0 in the semi-finals while Malaysia defeated Singapore 1-0 in the other semi-final riding on a S. Kumaahran 50th-minute strike. 

Bangladesh coach Lodewijk de Kruif was focused on winning the title overcoming the challene of stress. “Playing two important matches within three days is very tough but we have to do it, the time has arrived to win something and attain something, I think its the biggest motivation, in front of a fantastic crowd I hope Bangladesh would put the best and win the title” said the Dutch. 

His counterpart Razip Ismail admitted Bangladesh would enjoy the home advantage. “Playing in front of the home crowd will charge the home team up, but we have to absorb the pressure and put the best to win the trophy, I have to admit Bangladesh has improved after their defeat against us” said Rajip.

Malaysia won the title of the first Bangabandhu Gold Cup in 1996.