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Sports, 10 June, 2025 : In their first home match of the 2026 Asian Cup qualifiers, Bangladesh will face Singapore today. This match marks the debut of Canada-based midfielder Samit Som in the red-green jersey. However, team captain Jamal Bhuiyan has been left out of the starting lineup, raising eyebrows among fans. Notably, Jamal also remained on the bench during Bangladesh’s opening qualifier against India.
The starting XI features Mitul Marma as goalkeeper. The defensive line comprises Topu Barman, Tariq Kazi, Shakil Ahad Topu, and Saad Uddin. In midfield, Hamza Choudhury is the key attraction, supported by defensive midfielder Md. Hridoy. Samit Som and Kazem Shah will spearhead the attacking midfield, while coach Javier Cabrera has placed faith in Fahamidul Islam and Rakib Hossain to start the game.
Coach Cabrera made three changes to the lineup from the previous match against Bhutan on June 4. Defender Taj Uddin and midfielders Jamal and Sohel Rana have been replaced by Shakil Ahad Topu, Samit Som, and Hridoy.
With just half an hour remaining before kickoff, the Bangladesh Football Federation (BAFUF) has not officially announced the starting XI, contrary to their usual practice of releasing it an hour or less before international matches. However, broadcaster T Sports has revealed the lineup.
This match is crucial for the 2026 Asian Cup qualifiers, as all four teams in Group C currently have 1 point each. A victory today at the National Football Stadium, where the match kicks off at 7:00 PM, could significantly boost Bangladesh’s position in the group standings.
Historically, Bangladesh and Singapore have faced each other twice in international matches, with Singapore winning both encounters. However, Bangladesh has shown promising form recently, securing two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five matches.
Bangladesh Starting XI: Mitul Marma (GK), Topu Barman, Tariq Kazi, Saad Uddin, Shakil Ahad, Hamza Choudhury, Samit Som, Hridoy, Kazem Shah, Fahamidul Islam, Rakib Hossain.
AI/MR
