PHOTO: BFF

SPORTS REPORTER

Despite missing several key players, Bangladesh will aim to end their AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers campaign on a high when they face already-qualified Singapore national football team in their final Group C clash today.

The match kicks off at 6:00 pm Bangladesh time at the National Stadium in Kallang.

Singapore have already secured the group’s lone qualification spot with 11 points from five matches, while Bangladesh sit third with five points, courtesy of a win against India and draws against India and Hong Kong.

The first leg in Dhaka ended in a 2-1 defeat for Bangladesh, though the match could have ended in a draw after they were denied a late penalty following Rakib Hossain’s goal. Rakib -- arguably the team’s most dangerous attacking threat -- will miss the match due to suspension, as will experienced centre-back Topu Barman. Injuries to midfielders Shah Quazem Kirmanee and Mohammad Ridoy have further limited the squad.

Head coach Javier Cabrera, however, remains confident that his side can deliver a positive result. Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the Spaniard said he believes the available players are well prepared and highlighted the chance to finish with eight points -- taking seven from the last three matches -- as a motivating target.

The closed-roof stadium in Kallang is expected to host a vibrant, near-capacity crowd, with Singapore fans set to celebrate their historic Asian Cup qualification secured in the previous match against Hong Kong. Head coach Gavin Lee has named a near full-strength squad, making only minor adjustments from the side that travelled to Dhaka.

Around 6,000 tickets have reportedly been allocated to Bangladesh supporters, likely to be filled by expatriate fans based in Singapore. Captain Jamal Bhuyan said the team is motivated to perform for those fans who have shown strong support since their arrival.

“Whenever we go to countries where there are many Bengalis, we quite often see this kind of crowd, which is very positive,” Jamal said. “It would be great if those fans who cannot get a ticket could get one and watch us play, because it is not every day the national team comes to Singapore. So, of course, we will have them in mind and fight for them as well.”

While congratulating Singapore on their qualification, Cabrera made it clear that Bangladesh are determined to spoil the celebrations. The match could also mark his final game in charge, with his future dependent on a potential contract extension from the federation.