DHAKA, March 18, 2025 (BSS)–Bangladesh national football team head coach Javier Cabrera said he is expecting a fifty-fifty match against strong India in their away match of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers.
 
“Obviously we have strength after having Hamza, the top player of Europe, his presence in the team will make all the deference … it is also nice to see that India’s Sunil Chhetria backed in the side his presence  made the thinks exciting and motivating for everyone … but again India is strong team … I think we are getting better and better and we expect a fifty-fifty chance against India,” Cabrera said to the pressmen at the Shahjalal International Airport after Bangladesh national football team returned home today morning from Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
 
He said the team practiced for twelve days in Saudi Arabia in high-quality facilities and he is content with the Saudi practice and looking forward to go ahead.
 
Welcoming to Hamza Cabrera said: "He is a footballer who has played in Europe. He has experience playing in the top leagues. Everyone is excited about Hamza's arrival. Everyone is looking forward to practicing and playing match with him. I have always been in touch with him almost every week. We are looking forward to meet with him and will start planning together how to beat India. We will definitely see something good in the match against India."

Commenting about the exclusion of Fahamedul Islam from the final squad the Spanish coach Cabrera said: “Fahmidul did not come to Dhaka. He was with us in Saudi for a week. He is a talented player. Saudi's training with everyone in the team was important for him (Fahemedul). He did well in the camp but the other players are more ready than him. He needs more time."