Bangladesh to Play Friendly Against Nepal Tonight

The Nepalese team has already arrived in Dhaka and completed practice sessions. However, audience interest in the match seems low. The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) has promoted ticket sales via captain Jamal Bhuiya and young star Samit Som on social media, but the response has been modest. In contrast, all tickets for the upcoming match against India on 18 November were sold out in advance.

Coach Cabrera said, “The Nepal match is important, but the India match holds prestige for us. The result won’t change our position, but defeating India would be a huge victory for our supporters.”

Recalling the last-minute goal conceded against Hong Kong, Jamal Bhuiya said, “We learned from our mistakes. We thought the game was over, but football can last 97 minutes. We will apply this lesson in the future.”

Responding to criticism of the team’s performance, Coach Cabrera calmly said, “Criticism is expected, and I accept it. But I believe everyone wants the team to improve. Although we haven’t had continuous wins since our last victory against Bhutan in 2020, the players’ skills and mindset have greatly improved.”

Hamza Chowdhury is confirmed to play against Nepal, while Samit Som’s participation will be finalized before the match. Jamal Bhuiya added, “Decisions about the coach are the federation’s. As players, we just try to give our best on the field.”

Victory against Nepal offers Bangladesh an opportunity to regain confidence. Cabrera stated, “The Nepal match is an important step for us. Winning will please our supporters, and those claiming spectators aren’t coming because of the coach—well, tickets for the India match sold out in minutes, didn’t they?”

Tonight will reveal how effectively Bangladesh applies lessons learned to play disciplined and efficient football against Nepal.