The Bangladeshi star has promised to meet the fans’ expectations in the upcoming clash against Hong Kong China.
With the crucial encounter against Hong Kong China just around the corner, Hamza Chowdhury is determined to deliver for the supporters. The Bangladesh midfielder also hopes to erase the frustration of the Singapore match with a strong performance this time.
Back in June, Bangladesh suffered a 2–1 defeat to Singapore at the National Stadium. To move past that disappointment and keep their qualification hopes alive, Bangladesh will face Hong Kong China on Thursday.
In that Singapore game, Hamza sparked Bangladesh’s comeback with a goal in the 67th minute after conceding twice early on. Despite creating several chances and maintaining attacking pressure, the team couldn’t find the equalizer.
In added time, Bangladesh appealed for a penalty when Faisal Ahmed Fahim was fouled inside the box, but the referee ignored it. Moments later, Hamza’s shot narrowly missed the post—leaving him and the fans in deep frustration.
Speaking before training at the National Stadium on Tuesday, Hamza reflected on that painful night. His words were filled with regret for not being able to gift the home crowd a victory.
“In the Singapore match, we disappointed ourselves in key moments. We conceded two goals. Maybe if we had defended better, we wouldn’t have conceded. Also, we should’ve had a penalty. But that’s football—you can’t control everything all the time,” Hamza said.
“The coach and the team are working really well together. The Hong Kong game will be a different challenge, but I truly believe we can win. We just need to stick to our plan. That’s football—you have to take on challenges as they come. We won’t make excuses. We had injury issues in the India and Singapore matches as well. Shomit (Som) will join us today. Our squad looks strong, and I have great trust in the players on the bench.”
The missed opportunity at the end of the Singapore game still haunts Hamza. The 28-year-old midfielder admitted that he would be extra alert if a similar chance comes his way against Hong Kong China.
“It felt really bad (missing that chance against Singapore). I’ve watched the replay of that moment several times. Next time, Inshallah, I’ll make it count. I know there are big expectations from me, and I hope I can live up to them,” he added.
