Cabreira Optimistic About Hamza for Both Matches

Bangladesh national football team coach Javier Cabreira has expressed optimism that midfielder Hamza Chowdhury will feature in the team’s upcoming matches against Vietnam and Singapore, despite the player’s recent injury setback. The Leicester City midfielder, who has become a key figure for Bangladesh, has been sidelined since the first week of this month. Medical assessments indicate that full recovery could take six to eight weeks.

Speaking during an interlude at the Bangladesh Sports Press Association (BSPA) Iftar event at Paltan Handball Stadium, Cabreira said he remains in regular contact with both Hamza and Leicester City’s medical staff. “Hamza’s rehabilitation is progressing very well. If everything goes according to plan, he could be back on the field by mid-March and potentially feature in the final Asian Cup qualifying match against Singapore on 31 March,” the Spanish coach stated.

Before that, Bangladesh will play a friendly against Vietnam on 26 March. Cabreira is hopeful that Hamza will also participate in this match. There is a possibility that Hamza might travel directly to Vietnam, bypassing a return to Dhaka, depending on his recovery timeline. “We are positive about Hamza. We hope his recovery continues smoothly,” Cabreira added.

Cabreira also provided encouraging news regarding another overseas-based player, Shomit Soma. The coach maintains regular communication with Soma, who is eager to join the national team camp. Cabreira intends for Soma to begin training from Dhaka. The preliminary national camp is scheduled to start on 16 March, following the Bangladesh Football League matches concluding on 14 March. After completing three or four training sessions in Dhaka, the team will travel to Vietnam.

The Vietnam match is expected to be a significant challenge for Bangladesh, given Vietnam’s current FIFA ranking of 108. Cabreira had initially proposed playing against higher-ranked teams in preparation for the SAFF Championship later this year, a plan approved by the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF).

Regarding his own future, Cabreira emphasised patience. With two months remaining on his contract, he plans to discuss any extensions or future commitments with the BFF president after the Singapore match. “Decisions are not yet final. Our focus must remain on the Vietnam and Singapore matches first,” he said.

Having spent nearly four and a half years in Bangladesh, Cabreira expressed his appreciation for the country’s culture, especially the spirit of Ramadan and local festivals. He also extended his best wishes to the Bangladesh women’s football team as they travel to Australia for the Asian Cup, praising their fighting spirit. On International Mother Language Day, he reiterated his deep respect and affection for the Bangla language and culture.

Bangladesh National Team March Fixtures