Bangladesh India rivalry heats up before Dhaka qualifier
India’s football squad has prepared intensively at the National Stadium ahead of their Asian Cup Qualifier against Bangladesh despite both teams having been eliminated from tournament contention. Head coach Khalid Jamil emphasized that the fixture remains a competitive qualifier rather than a friendly exhibition, expressing determination to secure victory while downplaying the historical rivalry between the nations.
The visiting team faces uncertainty over Australian-born winger Ryan Williams, who switched international eligibility but still awaits FIFA authorization to participate. Jamil confirmed contingency plans exist regardless of whether approval arrives before kickoff, while acknowledging that players from both sides recognize the significance of the longstanding regional competition.
