Bangladesh out to defy odds against Pakistan

Bangladesh face Pakistan today in the first of a three-match play-off series at the Maulana Bhasani Hockey Stadium in Dhaka, with the opening game set to begin at 2:00 pm. The series will determine Asia's sixth representative at the upcoming FIH World Cup Qualifiers.

Once a powerhouse of world hockey with four World Cup and three Olympic golds, Pakistan have struggled in recent years. Yet, as Bangladesh's Dutch coach Siegfried Aikman admitted, beating Pakistan remains a daunting task for his side.

At yesterday's press conference, held in a makeshift tent beside the stadium, most questions centred on Bangladesh's chances of an upset. Aikman, who has spent the past two and a half months coaching the U-21s for this month's Junior World Cup, is also guiding the senior team -- featuring seven players from that youth squad.

"We've prepared the best we can and are ready to play," he said, before acknowledging the "huge gap" between the two teams in terms of experience and pace.

"In sport, everything is possible… but to be fair, there's a big difference," he added.

Bangladesh have never beaten Pakistan, although they have occasionally pushed superior opponents close since the mid-1970s. In their most recent meeting at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, Bangladesh took an early lead before eventually losing 5-2.

Aikman called facing Pakistan "a huge challenge", noting that their recent qualification for the FIH Pro League had boosted their confidence. "They have skilful players, great experience," said the Dutchman, who previously coached the Pakistan side.

Asked if his insight into the opposition might help, Aikman smiled: "They know me too, so it'll be interesting."

Pakistan coach Muhammad Usman, meanwhile, anticipates a closely contested match. "Nobody can win easily. It is a competition," said Usman, who has stepped in for regular coach Tahir Zaman following his recent disagreement with the Pakistan Hockey Federation and reported resignation.