Dhaka, July 20: National football coach Nikola Ilievski and skipper Biplob Bhattacharjee expressed high optimism about snatching a point against Lebanon in the World Cup qualifier before their departure to Beirut on Wednesday.

In the press briefing held at the BFF House Ilievski said Bangladesh’s strength have greater than before as he has picked out the required players for the ultimate challenge. “After watching six matches of the Super Cup I picked out the players what I needed and the current squad is stronger than the team that played against Pakistan, I have tried different formations and the players are ready for the challenge, I hope to win at least earn a point” said the Macedonian.

The coach said he is an admirer of attacking football and will not take any defensive strategy. “My motto is always to score one goal more than the opponents, I will insert attacking brand of football and I know Lebanon will enjoy the home conditions, but Bangladesh will not play any defensive football” said Ilievski who may opt for 4-1-4-1 formation.

The Macedonian said he has every belief upon his players. “I believe my players have the quality to beat Lebanon who have lost 0-1 to Oman, 0-6 to Kuwait and 6-2 by UAE, I feel we have got every chance though I came to knew that Lebanon have made 11 changes in the team, that means they were trying to find the right team” said Ilievski.

Biplob was upbeat to insert the jubilation in the countries football. “We know we stand in front of a great opportunity, Bangladesh football will get a big boost if we can move to the next round and the players are ready to put the best, they are motivated to do that” said Biplob.

Badal Roy the chairman of the National Team Management Committee hoped the players will give the breakthrough. “The stage is set and we have tried our level best to motivate the players. We hope the players will show their patriotism to give football the required lift” said Badal.

Team leader Fazlur Rahman Babul, manager Saeed Hasan Kanan were also present on the occasion