‘Extra motivation’ as Rahmat and Co eye Eid-inspired finish

Bangladesh are gearing up to close out their 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifying campaign with a final Group C clash against hosts Singapore on March 31, but ahead of Tuesday’s training at Bashundhara Kings Arena, key figures Rahmat Mia and Sheikh Morsalin emphasised that pride and preparation remain paramount.

With Singapore already through to the finals and Bangladesh sitting third with five points from five matches, the upcoming fixture has little bearing on qualification. Yet Rahmat, speaking to the media, stressed the importance of ending the campaign on a high. 

“Our expectation from the start was to qualify. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen, so now our focus is on the last match,” Rahmat said. 

Before facing Singapore, the men in red and green will test themselves in a friendly against Vietnam on March 26.

Looking ahead, Rahmat highlighted the value of both fixtures. 

“Singapore are a strong team, but I feel Vietnam may be even stronger. Playing against both will benefit us,” he said.

On the internal competition, he added, “Every position is competitive. Players who perform poorly will be out; those who perform well will stay. It’s as simple as that.”

He also reflected on the timing of the matches, coming just after Eid. “It’s not the first time we’ve spent Eid away from family, but it gives extra motivation. 

"If we can gift a win to our families and the nation, it inspires the players to give their best.”

Forward Morsalin echoed his coach’s sentiments, expressing confidence in the squad.

“Everyone in the team is in very good form. We hope to finish second in this qualifier round,” said Morsalin, adding that the friendly against Vietnam would serve as an important preparation platform.

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“We are grateful to BFF for arranging a match against such a strong team before Singapore. It provides extra motivation and helps the players prepare fully for the main match.”

Morsalin also pointed to the confidence gained from previous away results. 

“Drawing both away games against India and Hong Kong shows we can perform naturally even under pressure. Our focus now is to win the upcoming two matches.”