Bangladesh played two matches in Bahrain to prepare for the AFC U-23 tournament qualifiers. Saiful Bari Titu's men lost 2-4 to the Bahrain U-23 team last night. Although Bangladesh were leading 2-1 in the first half.
The match between Bangladesh and Bahrain U-23 teams has been recognized as a FIFA Tier-2 match. The results were not officially announced as the two teams played the match behind closed doors. According to various sources, Mirajul Islam scored a brace for Bangladesh. Bangladesh lost the first match 1-0. In the second match, they conceded four goals despite scoring two goals.
BFF assistant coach Atiqur Rahman Mishu gave his post-match reaction on Saturday morning. He said, "We have prepared well for Vietnam by playing two matches in Bahrain. Now there are 24 people in the camp. All 24 have got match time. Thank you BFF for giving us such an opportunity."‘
The Bangladesh U-23 team is scheduled to return to Dhaka from Bahrain tomorrow. The Zayans will train in Dhaka for a few days and then leave for Vietnam. Cuba Mitchell and Fahmidul are scheduled to arrive in Vietnam from Dhaka from Italy. This is the first time that the BFF has given such emphasis to the AFC U-23 tournament. Never before has this team been sent abroad to play training matches and play matches.
JHR
