Coach Javier Fernandez Cabrera has emphasized the significance of today's match against Maldives, stating that it is the most crucial game of the year for Bangladesh.
In the second leg of the World Cup qualifiers, Bangladesh is set to face Maldives at their home ground on Sunday.
Cabrera, who has served as Bangladesh's coach since January 2022, highlighted that this match is the most pivotal during his tenure.
The outcome of this match will determine the team that gets to play in next year's World Cup qualifiers, with the victorious side advancing to Group I, which includes Australia, Lebanon, and Palestine in the qualifiers.
Cabrera expressed, "Ahead is our biggest target of the year, counting on all the work we have put in this past year."
The match against Maldives, played to a 1-1 draw in Malé on Thursday, marked a significant achievement for Bangladesh, as it was the first time since 2000 that they managed to prevent Maldives from winning on their home turf.
Cabrera also regarded the match against the national team as Bangladesh's best performance played in Maldives in 23 years.
Coach Ali Suzen noted that the improved pitch quality could benefit the Maldives, but Cabrera believed it would be advantageous for both teams.
Cabrera, who previously coached Spain's Deportivo Alaves youth team, emphasized the confidence boost from the Bangladesh team's performance, having conceded only one goal in the capital.
He stated, "If the players have trust in themselves when they perform, they can achieve results."
Bangladesh captain Jamal Bhuyan acknowledged the challenge posed by playing against a team ranked higher than Bangladesh but expressed their desire to demonstrate their quality in front of their fans.
The match is scheduled at the Bashundhara Kings Arena, and Jamal believes that familiarity with the pitch will work in their favor.
The Bangladesh vs. Maldives match is set to kick off at 4:45 PM IST and will be broadcast on 'Yes' TV.
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