Bashundhara Kings set off for Kuwait on Tuesday afternoon to participate in the AFC Challenge League with a strong desire to advance past the group stage for the first time in their sixth appearance in an AFC-endorsed event. Having secured the Bangladesh Premier League title, the Kings had previously competed in the AFC Cup for four consecutive seasons before joining the AFC Challenge League last year. Despite their past five attempts resulting in group stage exits, team captain Topu Barman is aiming high this time, looking to guide the team to the quarterfinals of the third-tier Asian club championship. The competition is expected to be fierce, with tough challenges anticipated from clubs representing Oman, Lebanon, and Kuwait.
In the 2024 competition, the Kings faced high expectations, particularly with clubs from India, Bhutan, and Lebanon in their group. Unfortunately, they were eliminated after suffering defeats in all three matches against East Bengal, Paro FC, and Nejmeh SC. Nevertheless, the team finds motivation in their previous victory over Syria’s Al-Karamah SC in the preliminary round in August and their recent strong showings in domestic competitions.
Topu mentioned, “Our new Argentine coach has prepared us well, and we have maintained an undefeated streak in seven official and unofficial home matches. We are confident in our ability to achieve positive outcomes this time around.” Under Mario Gomez’s guidance, Bashundhara Kings have played four competitive matches to date, securing two wins and two draws.
“We have executed the coach’s strategies effectively,” Topu continued. “Our victory against the Lebanese club in the preliminary round has further boosted our morale. We are optimistic about topping the group, despite facing formidable opponents.”
Gomez conveyed his optimism in a club statement, stating, “The players have been diligently training for months in readiness for the Challenge League. I believe that exceptional performances can arise on the field if the team gives their all.” In the Challenge League’s West Group, three group winners and the best runner-up will progress to the quarterfinals.
Group B Fixtures:
– October 25: Kings vs Al Seeb Club of Oman
– October 28: Kings vs Al-Ansar FC of Lebanon
– October 31: Kings vs Kuwait SC of Kuwait