Sports Desk:

Bangladesh captain Jamal Bhuyan said his team is prepared to handle the pressure in an “emotional” match against neighbours India in an AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers fixture in Dhaka on Tuesday.

Despite both sides already being eliminated from the qualification race, there has been a lot of buzz surrounding the fixture, which will take place at the National Stadium at 8pm.

Their last meeting ended in a goalless draw in Shillong in March this year—the opening match of this qualifying campaign.

Speaking ahead of the contest on Monday Jamal described the match as one charged with emotion–not just for the players, but for the whole country.

“A very emotional, high-voltage match,” he said.

“After this match, there will be a long break for the national team. If we can finish the year with a win, it will be positive not only for us but also for the supporters and for you all. So, the match is emotional for me, but at the same time we have to play using our brains,” Jamal continued.

Bhuyan expects the tension to be visible on the field.

“There will be many free kicks in on Tuesday match, there will be yellow cards, there will be shouting. But I will take it as a normal match. Still, I know the importance of this match.”

Bangladesh have not beaten India in 22 years, with their last victory dating back to the 2003 SAFF Championship semifinal in Dhaka, when Matiur Munna’s golden goal earned a 2–1 win.

Despite the recent results, the Bangladesh captain believes the team entering this match is one of the strongest in recent years.

“Given our current situation, this is Bangladesh’s strongest squad. So of course we have a big opportunity.”

He also praised the growing chemistry between himself and Hamza Choudhury.

“I am lucky that I could assist Hamza–a corner and a bicycle kick. The bicycle-kick goal is one of the best I’ve seen for Bangladesh. It will definitely be number one.”

“Hamza has come from abroad, just like me. Our understanding is very good… So this understanding started off the field.”

Jamal acknowledged that pressure is normal for top-level footballers but emphasised that it comes from every direction ahead of this India clash.

“There is always pressure, but handling it is my job.”

He also noted that the excitement is not confined to football circles alone.

“Bangladesh’s cricket coach met me this morning and asked about the match. He said he would also be at the stadium. So even from the cricket side, they are excited… All of Bangladesh will watch the match.”

Looking at the tactical side, Jamal believes Bangladesh can exploit India’s defensive line if the visitors choose to press high.

“We definitely have problems in defense. But if India pushes high and plays up front, we will get a lot of space in attack.”

He highlighted Rakib Hossain, whose speed he considers unmatched in the region.

“Rakib is probably the fastest player in South Asia. If we can use him properly, then regardless of whether it’s Sandesh [Jhingan] or Rahul [Bheke] at the back—he will kill their defense.”