Hosts have eyes on the semifinal

Bangladesh are looking forward to finishing top of Pool A with a victory over Oman in their last pool match of the U-18 Asia Cup Hockey Tournament at the Maulana Bhasani Hockey Stadium today.

After a thrilling 5-4 win over favourites India, the hosts need just a draw in today's match to emerge champions in their pool, however, they are determined to put up a comprehensive performance against Oman, which could be a dress rehearsal for the semifinal against either China or Chinese Taipei.

On the back of a massive 11-0 win over Oman, India have confirmed their semifinal berth and the second semifinalist from Pool A will be decided between Oman and Bangladesh. Bangladesh will move to the semifinals unless they suffer a 6-0 defeat. Regardless of the equation, Bangladesh captain Roman Sarker is taking the match very seriously.

“We don't want to take any opposition lightly. Oman always play well against Bangladesh at any level, so we don't want to allow them any room to cause an upset. We will play according to our game plan and we are fully focused on tomorrow's [Tuesday] match,” said Roman, who is also a member of the senior national team.

Bangladesh could hardly judge Oman from the one-sided affair against India, but it is clear that the Omanis are physically more imposing and they are also good at running.

“They have some senior players including the goalkeepers, so we have to play accordingly as we have more responsibility on our shoulders, especially after the win against India. The expectation has also increased, so we have to do something special,” said a confident Roman.

Bangladesh will be relying on penalty corner specialist Ashraful Islam, who struck four goals against India. The promising defender is ready for Oman.

“I think I will get goals if I can take my usual shots. Even though the opponents will want to stop me, we have enough variations from penalty corners in our stock,” said Ashraful.