Recent political friction between India and Bangladesh has spilled over into the sporting world. India previously skipped cricket fixtures in Bangladesh and even pulled out of the SAFF U-20 tournament in Dhaka. Despite these tensions, the Indian national football team landed in Dhaka today (Saturday) to play their Asian Cup Qualifiers away match.
India reached the capital in the afternoon and skipped training for the day. Their first practice session is scheduled for tomorrow (Sunday).
As an Indian official explained,
βπ»ππ ππππ ππππ π ππππ ππππ ππππππ ππ πππππ πππππ ππππππππππππ πππ πππ π©ππππππ πππ πππππ.β
Sundayβs training will take place behind closed doors, with another practice set at the National Stadiumβalso the match venueβthe following day.
Bangladesh is Confident as the Indian Team Bring Expatriate Talent
Before their previous home qualifier match, Bangladesh played a warm-up fixture against Nepal. Despite strong performances from Hamza and Samit, Bangladesh couldnβt secure a win in their last home game. On the other hand, India arrived in Dhaka on the back of a commanding 6-1 victory over Bhutan.
Bangladeshβs biggest hope remains their expatriate duo, HamzaβSamit, whose performances have energized fans. Meanwhile, India is looking to introduce their own expatriate talent. Australian-born Ryan Williams has been brought to Dhaka for a potential debut.
However, his participation is uncertain. Williams is still awaiting both the NOC from Football Australia and FIFA clearance.
An Indian team representative stated, βUnless the approvals arrive by November 17, Ryan will not be eligible to play on the 18th.β
Without official confirmation before matchday, Indiaβs plan to field their new expatriate player may have to wait.
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