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Bangladesh will look to secure the top spot in their group when they face Sri Lanka in their second match of the SAFF Championship at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Wednesday.
The hosts have already booked their place in the semifinals after beating Bhutan 1-0 in their opening match. A 2-2 draw between Sri Lanka and Bhutan subsequently confirmed Bangladesh’s last-four berth.
A draw against Sri Lanka will be enough for Thomas Dooley’s side to finish as group champions.
Bangladesh are expected to make several changes to their starting XI, with Hamza Dewan Chowdhury and Farhan Ali Wahid set to return to the team. Mohammad Ibrahim, who scored the winning goal against Bhutan after coming on as a substitute, is also in contention for a starting place.
Hamza and Farhan missed the opening match due to their clubs’ busy schedules but joined the national team after the start of the FIFA international window.
Hamza’s return is expected to strengthen Bangladesh’s midfield, while Farhan could add pace and attacking options.
Captain Jamal Bhuiyan and Faisal Ahmed Fahim are among those who could make way for the returning players, although the final decision rests with coach Dooley.
Another possible change could come in attack as Bishwanath Ghosh is doubtful for the match due to injury. He played in a central attacking role against Bhutan, but his fitness remains a concern. Ibrahim is a strong candidate to replace him after his match-winning contribution.
There is also positive news regarding captain Topu Barman and Sheikh Morsalin, who missed the opening match due to injury and illness. Both have returned to training and are available for selection.
The match, scheduled to kick off at 8:00pm, will give Bangladesh an opportunity not only to secure the group leadership but also to assess their preparations ahead of the semifinals.
