IT'S NOW OR NEVER

Bangla Press Desk:  For Bangladesh, today’s clash in Hong Kong, China, is nothing short of a do-or-die fixture in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers. Kick-off is at 6 PM Bangladesh time at the Kai Tak Sports Park Stadium, a venue that could determine whether the men in red and green keep their qualification hopes alive or see their campaign end prematurely.

Captain Jamal Bhuyan made the stakes clear at Monday’s pre-match press conference. “Everyone knows Tuesday’s game is a do-or-die battle for us,” he said. “We’re here to win. We want to return home with three points.”

Bangladesh have three matches remaining in the qualifying round and must win all to stay in contention. Any draw or defeat would all but end their campaign, as they currently sit at the bottom of Group C. 

A late defensive lapse in last Thursday’s home match against Hong Kong, China, cost them vital points, making the path to qualification even steeper.

The team has seen a noticeable transformation since March with the inclusion of Hamza Choudhury, alongside Canada-based forward Shamit Shome and Italy-based midfielder Fahamedul Islam, strengthening both depth and quality. Despite improved performances, victories have been scarce. 
Bangladesh dominated against India in March but were denied a win, fell short against Singapore in June, and last Thursday fought back from 1–3 down to 3–3 against Hong Kong, only to concede in the dying moments.

Logistics posed additional challenges on arrival, with the team travelling 25–26 kilometres from their hotel to a training venue reported to be in poor condition. 

Head coach Javier Cabrera downplayed the issue: “These things happen when we travel. The facilities weren’t the best, but good enough for our sessions.”

Bangladesh will get a key boost with centre-back Topu Barman, fully recovered from injury, expected to strengthen the defence. Cabrera also hinted at possible changes to the starting XI to inject fresh energy and tactical balance.

The squad’s overseas-based players, coupled with a determination not to repeat past mistakes, give Bangladesh a fighting chance. If they can replicate the attacking intent that nearly delivered a comeback in Dhaka, while maintaining defensive discipline, victory is within reach.

As the sun sets over Kai Tak, one thing is certain — for Bangladesh, victory is the only option. With everything on the line, the team must win today to keep their Asian Cup dream alive.

BP/SP