Bangladesh is confident of conquering the high altitude challenge and the might of India when they face the defending champions in the opening match of the SAFF Under-17 Championship at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan, today.聽
The Group A first match will begin at 6:00pm.
鈥楤oys are aware how to handle the pressure and how to compete against a strong opponent. We will try to prove ourselves with a good performance. We want to go step by step. Overall, that is our main goal,鈥� Bangladesh coach Saiful Bari Titu said at the pre-match press conference in Thimphu on Thursday.
鈥楩irst match is always important. Besides, it is also tough when you are facing India in the first match. I think boys would be able to take correct decisions in vital moments during the game.鈥�
India won the SAFF U-16 Championship title at the same venue a year ago after beating Bangladesh in the final 2-0. Bangladesh鈥檚 current team is comprised of most of the players from that team.
Bangladesh captain Nazmul Huda Foysal, who captained the U-16 side last year, said that they were well prepared to battle toe-to-toe with India this time around.
Bangladesh will face the Maldives in their second and final match of the three-team group on Sunday. Group B consists of hosts Bhutan, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the September 28 semi-finals. The final will be held on September 30.