Bangladesh U-23 begin AFC Asian Cup qualifiers with opener against hosts Vietnam

The Bangladesh U-23 football team kicks off their AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualification campaign today, taking on hosts Vietnam in their opening Group C clash at the Viet Tri Stadium in Phu Tho. The match is set to begin at 6 pm Bangladesh time.

Speaking ahead of the crucial fixture, Bangladesh U-23 assistant coach Hasan Al Mamun expressed confidence in his side’s preparation and mindset.

“Over the last month, we have trained both in Dhaka and Bahrain and had two days of final preparation here in Vietnam. Overall, the boys are ready and motivated to achieve something positive in this tournament,” he said.

Midfielder Shekh Morsalin also voiced strong determination from the squad. “We have worked hard over the past month and are mentally prepared for the first match. We will try our utmost to give our best on the field,” he said.

Bangladesh will go on to face Yemen and Singapore in their remaining group matches, scheduled for September 6 and 9, respectively.

A total of 44 teams are competing in the qualifiers, divided into 11 groups. The 11 group winners, along with the four best runners-up and hosts Saudi Arabia, will qualify for the 16-team final tournament to be held in Saudi Arabia in January next year.

SR