Can new soccer coach kindle light?
The draw of the 11th edition of the SAF Football championship begins in the Indian capital of New Delhi on December 23 in Kerala. In Group A, hosts India have been placed with Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. On the contrary, Group B comprises holders Afghanistan, former Champions Bangladesh, Bhutan and Maldives.
According to Bangladesh captain Mamunul, Group B is a ‘Group of Death’ and the players will have to overcome stubborn Maldives and defending Champions Afghanistan if their target is semifinals at least. The task will not be easy. But I think that it is possible, because the war torn Afghanistan are tired of taking the scent of gun powder and corpses. Their results after last SAFF championship have not been inspiring.
To my mind, Bangladesh and Maldives will sail into the last four. I have considered the islands in view of their recent 0-3 goals defeat by China in the World Cup Football qualifying round. From Group A, highest six times Champions India and Pakistan or Nepal have sweeter opportunities to cruise into the semifinals.
The Indian players could not improve their skills even after successful first edition of the Indian Super League last year. The players will, however, get an opportunity to raise their standard as the second edition of ISL starts from October 4.
The Pakistan Football Federation has included the overseas footballers to boost their future. We heard an official to say that Pakistan would land in the Asian standard soon. The dream has remained dream. In truth, South Asia is the weakest soccer zone in the world.
In brief, I predict that Bangladesh, Maldives, India and Pakistan will qualify for the semifinals. Can Bangladesh under new Italian coach fulfill our dream?
Khurshida Haque
Dhaka
