Bangladesh eyes winning end against Sri Lanka

Dhaka, 10 Nov- Motivated Bangladesh take on Sri Lanka in their final Group A match of the SAFF Championship at the National Stadium tomorrow (Wednesday), aiming to finish the group stage on a winning note and secure the top spot.

Private satellite channel T-sports will provide live telecast of the match that kicks off at 8pm, following the day’s opening match between defending champions India and Maldives at 3.30 pm.

Bangladesh already confirmed their spot in the last four following a 2-2 draw between Sri Lanka and Bhutan in previous group A fixture on Sunday last. The boys in red and green brigade had earlier opened their tournament campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Bhutan, courtesy of a second-half strike from substitute forward Mohammad Ibrahim.

With three points from one match, Bangladesh currently lead Group A in the points table, while Sri Lanka have one point from their opening fixture. A draw would be enough for the hosts to retain the top position in the group while a victory would further strengthen their confidence ahead of the knockout stage.

Despite having already secured qualification, Bangladesh are expected to approach the encounter with full determination, as finishing top of the group would provide an additional boost before the last for clash.

The match will also offer Bangladesh an opportunity to fine-tune their combinations with the arrival of key players. Star midfielder Hamza Choudhury has joined the team following his club commitments in England, while England-based forward Farhan Ali Wahid also joined the squad, further strengthening the attacking option.

Sri Lanka, however, are unlikely to be easy opponents. They demonstrated their attacking potential in the 2-2 draw against Bhutan with Oliver James and Ahmed Waseem Razeek finding the net. Their performance suggests that Bangladesh will need to remain organised and disciplined in both defence and attack.

Bangladesh head coach Thomas Dooley will be keen to see improved attacking coordination and more clinical finishing from his players, particularly after their narrow victory in the opening match.

Playing in front of their home supporters, Bangladesh will look to make the most of home advantage as they continue their quest to end a 23-year wait for the SAFF Championship title.

Bangladesh last lifted the regional trophy in 2003 and will play their semifinal on November 14, with their opponents to be determined by the outcome of Group B.BSS