Bangladesh had their first training session in the Maldives yesterday ahead of the SAFF Championship after the squad returned negative Covid-19 tests.

The men in red and green will take on Sri Lanka in their opening game on October 1 at 10:00pm (Bangladesh Standard Time) at the National Football Stadium in Male.

Team manager Satyajit Das confirmed that the squad had returned negative on Covid-19 tests, but that midfielder Sohel Rana was sidelined with fever, although he is expected to recover soon.

"We reached Maldives yesterday [Tuesday] and immediately took Covid tests and everyone returned negative results. We went to the training ground today [Wednesday] and the players are receiving appropriate training according to the coach's guidance," Das said.

"However, Sohel Rana has mild fever and is taking medication. We expect him to be back soon. The rest of the players are healthy and training well and preparing for their game against Sri Lanka on Friday."

Defender Tarek Raihan Kazi was eager to get a winning start.

"We arrived in Male yesterday and finished our first practice today. The weather is very nice here. We play our first game against Sri Lanka, so we still have one training session tomorrow [today]. The team is very motivated and everyone has adjusted to the plans well. We are looking forward to the first match against Sri Lanka. It's very important that we win our first match and start with a win," said the Finland-born player.

Bangladeshis living in Maldives are thrilled at the prospect of seeing their team in action.

"An estimated one lakh Bangladeshis currently reside in Maldives. We are delighted that the SAFF tournament is being held here. For us, it's a matter of great fortune and privilege to be able to see our national team live. We hope to see Bangladesh win the SAFF championship," said one supporter.