This match in Dhaka between India and Bangladesh in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers is best compared to two failed students who have no chance of moving to the next class. If there is still any contest left between such students, this game resembles that.
In Group C, both teams have been eliminated well before the final round. India and Bangladesh sit third and fourth respectively, with just two points each from four matches, two defeats and two draws. Bangladesh are ahead only because Cabrera’s men have scored more goals.
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For both sides, the match is now only about pride. In the first leg of the tournament in Shillong, Bangladesh had kept India goalless. Now, Cabrera’s team are fully prepared to win at home. On the other hand, Khalid Jamil, who took charge recently, could not fulfil the dream of taking India to the Asian Cup. It remains to be seen whether he can at least salvage pride.
The biggest point of interest in this match is the duel between two EPL-experienced players, Hamza Choudhury and Ryan Williams.
Hamza, the midfielder who has played for Leicester City and Sheffield United, began representing Bangladesh earlier this year. He has been scoring and creating goals, and his arrival has added fresh motivation and urgency to the Bangladesh squad.
Ryan Williams, the Australian forward, has previously turned out for Portsmouth and Fulham FC. After a successful spell alongside Sunil Chhetri in the ISL, he chose to represent his ancestral country. Although Khalid wants him available for this match, as of Monday 10 pm, India had not yet received FIFA’s clearance for him to play — making his appearance uncertain.
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For Khalid, this match is a serious test. With Sunil Chhetri retired, and with Mohun Bagan players excluded due to ego issues, Khalid has selected seven junior footballers. His aim is to build a new Blue Brigade. If he can beat Bangladesh with this young group, it will justify his decision to leave out the likes of Vishal, Liston and Apuia.
If he fails, India’s pride will sink in the waters of the Padma.
