The final Group A tie against Sri Lanka this Monday at Bangabandhu National Stadium was already a do-or-die one for Bangladesh given that the hosts lost their opening match against Malaysia Under-23 two days ago in Sylhet. The home side’s final encounter though became doubly important yesterday as skipper Mamunul Islam hinted that he might retire from national duty if they fail to qualify for the semifinals of the Bangabandhu Gold Cup.
Following a 1-0 defeat against the Malaysians, there is no other option left for Mamunul and Co but to draw or win their final group stage match against the Lankans if they are to make it to the last four. And as the leader of the side, Mamunul came forward and took responsibility for their loss in the opening match.
“I talked to the players after the defeat, tried to lift them up and inspired them to give their best in the next game. I took the responsibility of all the 22 players in the squad so that they do not have to play under pressure,” said Mamunul yesterday.
Before leaving for Dhaka yesterday afternoon, Mamunul told the media that he would quit from the national team if they crash out of the event in the group stage.
“Yes, I am sad. We gave our word to someone (BFF president Kazi Salahuddin) that we would reach the semifinals of the tournament. If we fail to make it, I will personally leave the national side,” he added.
The Sheikh Jamal midfielder also gave his observations on the 1-0 defeat against the Malaysians. “We had no idea about their strength but they analysed us well and knew about us,” the 28-year old said before adding, “We went into the game to surprise them but they rather surprised us with high pressing football in the first 25 minutes. After that we played well but there is no value of performance if we cannot get the result.”
Winger Zahid Hossain meanwhile, arguably Bangladesh’s best player in the first match, said they are quite confident about beating Sri Lanka.
“I am positive about the match against Sri Lanka. We should quit the game of football if we do not win that game,” he said.