Bangladesh ready for Nepal challenge

Bangladesh are bracing for any challenge -- even a penalty shootout -- but remain confident of reaching the final, head coach Mark Cox said ahead of their SAFF U-20 Championship semifinal against Nepal in Maldives on Wednesday.

“Whoever we play, it will be a fight, but we will play our way and focus on ourselves,” Cox said in a video interview shared by the Bangladesh Football Federation on Tuesday.

“Hopefully we’ll win it within 90 minutes. There’s no extra time and it goes straight to penalties. We’re ready for any eventuality,” he added.

Bangladesh began their campaign with a 2-0 win over Pakistan before holding India to a 1-1 draw, finishing second in the group to set up the semifinal clash against Nepal -- a side they defeated on their way to lifting the title in 2024, the only time Bangladesh have won this age-group tournament.

Despite Ronan Declan’s lively performances and goals, Bangladesh have looked somewhat inconsistent so far, and Cox has faced criticism over his team selection and playing style. 

However, the coach remained tight-lipped ahead of the crucial encounter.

“Of the 22 players we have here, I trust every single one as the best. We’ll consider all options depending on how the game goes,” Cox said.

The match will kick off at 4:45pm Bangladesh time, before India take on Bhutan in the second semifinal later in the day.