Bangladesh have received a significant boost ahead of their second match in the SAFF Championship, with midfielder Hamza Chowdhury arriving in Dhaka on Monday morning to join the national squad. Having missed the opening fixture against Bhutan, the midfielder is now expected to be available for the match against Sri Lanka on 11 November.
Hamza was unable to feature in Bangladesh’s first match because it took place before the start of the November FIFA international window. At that stage, his English club, Sheffield United, were not obliged to release him for international duty. The club also had a fixture of its own during the same period, making his involvement with the national team difficult.
The situation has now changed with the November FIFA window beginning today. During designated international periods, clubs are required to release eligible players for national team commitments in accordance with FIFA regulations. This has cleared the way for Hamza to travel to Bangladesh and join his international team-mates without the scheduling restrictions that prevented him from participating in the opening match.
Hamza is expected to take part in Bangladesh’s training session this afternoon at ABG Sports City. The session forms part of the team’s preparations for their upcoming encounter with Sri Lanka on 11 November. His arrival will give the coaching staff an opportunity to integrate him into the squad’s preparations and assess his readiness ahead of the fixture.
Bangladesh have already secured their place in the semi-finals of the competition. They began their campaign with a victory over Bhutan, while Sri Lanka’s draw against Bhutan in another fixture helped confirm Bangladesh’s qualification for the next stage.
Securing a semi-final place early has given Bangladesh a degree of breathing space, but the remaining group-stage fixture against Sri Lanka still carries significance. It will provide the team with another opportunity to assess their performance, maintain their momentum and build confidence before the knockout stage.
Hamza’s return is expected to strengthen Bangladesh’s midfield options. His experience in English club football and ability to contribute in different phases of the game make him an important addition to the squad. His presence could also improve the team’s balance, particularly in midfield, where controlling possession and linking defensive and attacking play will be crucial.
Bangladesh managed to win their opening match without him. With the midfielder now back in the fold, the national side will be hoping to carry that positive momentum into the Sri Lanka encounter. Attention will now turn to his participation in training and how quickly he can settle into the team’s plans ahead of the 11 November fixture.
