DHAKA, Nov 12, 2024 (BSS) - Bangladesh take on visiting Maldives in the first of the two-match FIFA Friendlies with a aspiration to win the match scheduled to be held tomorrow (Wednesday) at Bashundhara Kings Arena in the capital.

The match kicks off at 6 pm.

The series is very important for Bangladesh to improve their international ranking. The boys in red and green, who are going to play their last series at the home soil in this year must be aiming to finish the year by winning the series against Maldives.

In the home series, the red and green jersey holders will miss the service of their regular captain Jamal Bhuyan who was not considered by coach Javier Cabrera in the 27-member squad. 

Though the home side will take to the field with upper hand as they will get the ample support from the home crowds. 

Bangladesh and the Maldives have played eighteen matches against each other since 1984, with both teams winning six, drawing six, and losing six. Bangladesh is currently ranked 185th in the world, while the Maldives is ranked 163rd.

In the last meeting against Maldives in October last year in the first round of World Cup 2026 qualifiers, the red and green jersey holders drew the first of the two home and away matches 1-1 in Male and Bangladesh got their ticket to the second round by winning the home match 2-1.

The Maldives team is also expecting to win the series against Bangladesh making their return to international football after a lengthy break.

It has been nearly a year since the Maldives tasted competitive action, having been eliminated by Bangladesh in the first round of World Cup Qualifiers held in October last year.

Meanwhile, the rate of tickets has been announced for the football lovers for Wednesday's match in three categories. The price of VIP gallery is Taka 800.00, category 1 Taka 300.00 and category 2, Taka 300.00 each.

Tickets are available at Social Islami Bank and Southeast Bank at Bashundhara branch.