Booters look for reversed fortune in Hong Kong

Bangladesh will look to overturn their home defeat as they face Hong Kong, China, in the Asian Cup Qualifiers today at a packed Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong. Kick-off is scheduled for 6:00pm Bangladesh time.

With just one point from three matches, the men in red and green have only a slim chance of progressing to the finals. Their hopes were dealt a blow following a 4-3 loss at home to Hong Kong on October 9. To stay in contention, Bangladesh must win all three of their remaining fixtures -- against Hong Kong, India, and Singapore -- while relying on other results to go their way. A draw tonight would end their qualification hopes.

Coach Javier Cabrera is likely to bring changes to the starting eleven, particularly after scrutiny over his line-up in the home leg. Fit-again centre-back Topu Barman, who made a late appearance in that match in Dhaka, is expected to start alongside Tariq Kazi. There may be alterations to the full-back positions as well.

Midfielder Shamit Shome, who scored with a fine header after coming on in the second half, is also expected to start. Cabrera previously noted that Shome was not at his best due to travel, limited training, and jet lag, but now looks ready to feature from the outset.

Captain Jamal Bhuyan, who made an impact after coming on in the second half, later said he wanted himself to be in the starting XI. With Jamal being a fan favourite, Cabrera will be under pressure to start the seasoned campaigner in this do-or-die fixture.

Despite the pressure, Cabrera wants his team to replicate the fighting spirit and ambition they showed in Dhaka.

"It was a very competitive match, and we go into tomorrow with the same mentality and ambition. We know we need three points to keep going."

Cabrera remained optimistic, believing Bangladesh have performed closely against their opponents but are yet to overcome the final hurdle.

"We're close to breaking the wall that takes us to the next level. We believe we're already there in terms of performance -- but now it's about getting the win," he said.

Meanwhile, Raphael Markies, the Hong Kong forward who netted a hattrick in Dhaka, is focused on finishing the job.

"It was a crazy night (in Dhaka), but the job is only half done," said Markies. "This game is very important for us."