Imtiaz Confident Ahead of Semifinal Showdown

Bangladesh U-17 national football team goalkeeper Alif Rahman Imtiaz has declared that his side will take to the field with only one objective in mind – to win their semifinal clash.

The Young Tigers are set to face Pakistan in the first semifinal of the SAFF U-17 Championship, scheduled for 25 September at Racecourse Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

In a video message released on Monday, Imtiaz said: “We have won the last two group matches and we will step onto the field to win the semifinal, no matter who our opponent is.”

He added that the entire squad is highly motivated, focused, and looking forward to securing a place in the tournament final.

Team Manager Sharif Azizul Hasan Mohan confirmed that preparations are in full swing:

• All players are fit and ready for the crucial tie.
• The team is following a well-structured training plan.
• Instead of on-field training today, the squad participated in yoga and swimming sessions at their hotel to maintain fitness and recovery.

Later in the day, the players attended the stadium to watch the India vs Pakistan group match, gaining further insight into their likely opponents.

Bangladesh advanced to the semifinals as group champions, showcasing dominant performances in the group stage.

Their emphatic victories underline the team’s offensive strength and defensive stability, providing a morale boost ahead of the semifinal.