Bangladesh aspire to start with a bang against Bhutan in their opener of the SAFF Championship at the Bangabandhu National Stadium at 7:00 pm on Friday. Bhutan, the Himalayan kingdom, on the other hand will be looking to salvage a point from their first assignment of the eight team South Asian football extravaganza.

In the past seven encounters since 1984 Bangladesh have won five and drew two against Bhutan, who were the surprise semifinalists of the last edition.

Bangladesh skipper Aminul Huq was full of confidence ahead of the crucial clash. “I am not undermining Bhutan but all I can say is that Bangladesh are ready to show their full potential in the first match of the tournament, I have every belief that if Bangladesh play to their potential, we will win the match,” said Aminul.

Bangladesh will rely upon the striking abilities of Emily and Enamul as scoring goals remain the Achilles’ heel. “Yes, I have to admit that the scoring goals remain a concern for Bangladesh but with the best available resources we will be able to put a good show,” said Aminul.

The Bangladesh keeper was hoping that his midfield will provide the required fireworks when needed. “I have every faith that the midfield will deliver the final balls to the forwards, Mamunul Islam has the ability to arrive she playmaker.”

Bangladesh went through a hard training session on Thursday and the team looked fresh and agile. Coach Shahidur Rahman Chowdhury Shantoo was in his typical easy going mood. “The players are talking a lot among them about their commitments and we look forward to produce the perfect teamwork,  the players feel the heat of the expectations of the nation and they are not ready to let the nation down,” said Shantoo.

The coach said he had not selected the formation of the team yet. “I have tried 5-3-2 and also 4-4-2, I will decide it later, all I can say that the tem are ready to fire on all cylinders.

Koji Gyotku, the Japanese coach of Bhutan, however was content with his aspirations. “We will be happy if we can salvage a point from Bangladesh in the opening match, we want to improve match by match,” said Koji.

Bhutanese skipper Pema however promised to fight till the end. “Definitely Bangladesh have the edge as they are playing in their own yard but we look forward to fight  till the end,” said Pema.