Footballers' Vietnam test today
Bangladesh's return from the Merdeka Cup in empty hands looks certain as the national football team go into their last group match apparently without any particular target.
Having lost 1-0 to Mozambique's Under-20 side and by the same margin to neighbours Myanmar, Shafiqul Islam Manik's boys today face Vietnam's Olympic team (under-23), the best team of the group without any argument.
The Group B match will start at the Shah Alam Stadium in Kuala Lumpur at Bangladesh time 4.30 pm. Semifinal contenders Mozambique and Myanmar also play at the same time at the MPPJ Stadium.
Vietnam routed Myanmar 3-1 and thrashed Mozambique 4-0 to ensure their semifinal berth with flying colours but Bangladesh were rather unfortunate to lose two matches they had really dominated.
"We were unfortunate to lose both matches after playing so well. The missed chances, we had plenty to win in the two matches, really cost us dear," coach Manik told The Daily Star yesterday from the Malaysian capital.
The Bangladeshi footballers were given a chance to escape from really when they went for a bus tour of the beautiful city and Manik said the performances have at least given the players some confidence.
"The players have realised that they can play better. This is what we are taking home from this tour," said the former national footballer, who is in his first assignment as national coach.
Manik was undecided on changes but confirmed that injured Hassan Al Mamun will not play.
"I am not going to change formation and any one among Nazrul, Saikat or Shuvra will replace Hassan in the three-man central defence. There could be more changes but I will take the decision tomorrow morning," added Manik, who has been criticised for playing defensive even after conceding a goal midway through the first half against Myanmar.
It is likely that players like goalkeeper Biplab, debutant midfielder Pranotosh and defenders Nazrul and Saikat will get a chance to play after not being used in the first two matches.
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