Hamza Choudhury’s debut for Bangladesh significantly affects India’s chances in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers. His experience in the Premier League may give Bangladesh an upper hand, despite India welcoming back Sunil Chhetri. The match, set for March 25, 2025, in Shillong, is crucial for both teams, especially after Choudhury’s switch of allegiance from England to Bangladesh.
The upcoming AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers match between India and Bangladesh is heightened by the inclusion of Leicester City player Hamza Choudhury in Bangladesh’s squad. His debut is set for March 25, 2025, in Shillong, Meghalaya, which may shift the odds against India, even with the return of the esteemed Sunil Chhetri to the team.
Choudhury, of Grenadian lineage on his father’s side and Bangladeshi descent through his mother, received a warm welcome upon arriving in Sylhet. He expressed significant excitement about his new journey, stating that it feels incredible and that he is thrilled to finally be in Bangladesh.
While India benefits from Chhetri’s reinstatement to a struggling squad, Choudhury’s experience in England’s Premier League significantly enhances Bangladesh’s competiveness. Having represented Leicester City since 2017 and being instrumental in their FA Cup victory, his presence gives the Bangladesh team a considerable advantage.
Choudhury is optimistic about Bangladesh’s prospects against India, confidently stating that they can prevail and move ahead in the tournament. After initially representing England at the U-21 level, he chose to align with Bangladesh by securing a Bangladeshi passport late last year.
Chhetri’s appearance under new Indian coach Manolo Marquez comes after his personal retirement from international football last June. As India prepares for a friendly against the Maldives just days before the clash with Bangladesh, the stakes are elevated with Choudhury’s anticipated debut.
The inclusion of Hamza Choudhury in the Bangladesh team introduces a significant challenge for India in the upcoming AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers match. Both teams have notable players like Sunil Chhetri and Choudhury, but the latter’s Premier League experience may tilt the balance. As the teams prepare for this highly anticipated matchup, the outcomes will have lasting implications for both squads’ trajectories in the tournament.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
