Big test for Lopez
We are not sure if Italian coach Fabio Lopez had wished the kind of adversity he had experienced so far on way to making his Bangladesh debut in a World Cup and Asian Cup qualifier against hosts Kyrgyzstan today.
Over the past one month, the 43-year-old had to battle with a number of injury and fitness issues of some key players, came under scrutiny for trying something different involving captain Mamunul Islam and received a chilling reception when he landed in the Kyrgyz capital of Bishkek last Saturday. And as if that was not enough, his wish to have a feel of the Dolen Omurzakov Stadium, also known as the Spartak Stadium, the venue for today's game, was thwarted by rain accompanied by gusty wind yesterday -- the only day the visitors were allowed to train at the match venue.
Snubbed by rain, Lopez now has got a bigger challenge in hand -- a game against a team that convincingly beat their South Asian rivals 3-1 when they toured Bangladesh in June. Although a defeat for Bangladesh, who have so far won one point from their previous four Group B qualifying games, appears a foregone conclusion, Lopez can inspire his charges by telling them about the adversities he faced ever since he took over.
Barring the outcome of the match, football fans back at home will however keep a close eye on the tactic Lopez employs and the formation he chooses for a team which arguably lacks necessary skills and stamina to perform at the top level.
With the mercury in Bishkek falling below 10 degrees, the unkind weather is also going to pose another threat for Mamunul and Co, who are unaccustomed to such cold conditions.
Lopez was understandably a bit worried with the weather in Bishkek. He however hoped that his charges would be trying to do their best to make their fans happy with an inspired performance.
The Italian, while speaking at a pre-match briefing yesterday, did not reveal anything regarding the tactical aspects of today's match. He only said that he wants his charges to concentrate for the full 90 minutes and stick to his plan.
The coach also tried to spread a belief among his charges that if Tajikistan can produce a 2-2 draw against Kyrgyzstan in Bishkek, then Bangladesh can also do the same as there is very little difference between Bangladesh, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.
It has been learnt that Lopez will start with a 4-1-4-1 formation.
Captain Mamunul, who also spoke at yesterday's briefing, said that they are confident of doing something good.
“We all are in good shape and are committed to doing well under the new coaching staff, who worked hard for the match against Kyrgyzstan,” said Mamunul.
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