Bangladesh national football team coach Javier Cabrera has expressed satisfaction with the team’s set-piece preparations, saying everyone in the camp is happy with the progress.
In the last encounter on Indian soil, Bangladesh’s dream of victory was shattered late in the game when they conceded a goal from a set-piece. With this match approaching, Cabrera has focused on improving this aspect of the game. He is also pleased with the team’s overall training.
The third round of the Asian Cup qualifiers is fast approaching, with Bangladesh set to face India in Shillong on March 25.
The last time Bangladesh played in India was in 2019 during the World Cup qualifiers. In that match at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium, Bangladesh initially took the lead, but later conceded from a set-piece, losing the chance for a win.
Therefore, in the ongoing camp in Ta’if, Saudi Arabia, Cabrera has been focusing on set-piece work. Due to the preparation match, the coach didn’t push the players too hard in training.
“Training is going well. Today, we reduced the load on the players and focused more on set-pieces. The session was good and dynamic.”
“What we wanted to see, the players have managed to do some recovery. The last two days weren’t just about preparation matches, but also about player recovery. So, today’s session’s goal was that, and we’re all happy with the results.”
Thanks to continuous preparation, the players are growing confident about the upcoming match against India. Midfielder Mohammad Hridoy shared, “First of all, Alhamdulillah, we are all fit. For the upcoming match against India, we are all preparing well in Saudi Arabia’s camp. If we play according to the coach’s plan, Inshallah, we can expect a positive result.”
“Regardless of the opponent, I respect every team. But if we play our normal football, follow our plan, we can expect a positive result. Actually, the team has a good mix of senior and junior players, and I’m one of the juniors. I believe that if we stay active, adapt well, and play together as a team, we can achieve a good result.”
The competition for spots in the final squad has motivated the players to give their best. Midfielder Papon Singh echoed this sentiment in a message sent by the Bangladesh Football Federation.
“The atmosphere is great, and training in Saudi Arabia is helping us adapt to Shillong’s conditions. Everyone is training with full focus. Whoever gets the opportunity, will perform well. I’m giving my best to stay in the starting eleven.”
