Bangladesh will face Asian powerhouse Uzbekistan in the crucial group B of the AFC U-19 Qualifiers at Tajikistan today.
So far Bangladesh U-19 had been impressive so far in the tour as they forced hosts Tajikistan to a goalless draw and beat Maldives 1-0 in their previous match.
However title aspirants Uzbekistan began the meet in devastating form as they dumped Sri Lanka 10-0 and followed with another 6-0 win over Maldives.
Head coach Mahbub Hossain Roxy admitted about the tough road ahead of them. “Uzbekistan is a very strong opponent team in the Group- B as they have already beaten Sri-lanka 10- 0. They are physically, mentally far better than us.
Me and Andrew Ord saw Uzbekistan vs Maldives match and they led the first half 2-0 . And finally they won 6-0. So we need to put our best to play against Uzbekistan”.
Senior National team Head Coach Andrew Ord was realistic about his aspirations. “First of all we have to acknowledge that Uzbekistan is a world class team at age group level. They regularly have reached knockout stages in U-20’s World Cups.
So they have significant quality. However, this is what football is all about, testing yourself and seeing how much progress we have made and how far we still have to go. My message to the Team Officials and players is simple. You have to believe in yourself and embrace the opportunity as anything is possible”.
