In football, the numbers on a ranking sheet often tell only half the story. As Bangladesh gears up to face Hong Kong, China who sit 38 places above them in the FIFA rankings at 146th, Mitul Marma and his teammates are determined to prove that statistics can be defied on the pitch.
The stage is set at the National Stadium in Dhaka, where on October 9, Javier Farnandez Cabrera's disciples will lock horns with Hong Kong, China in the third round of the Asian Cup qualifiers. For Bangladesh, the task is crystal clear as two wins over their group rivals are the only way to keep qualification hopes alive.
The camp began in earnest on Monday, though Tuesday's training session was cut short by heavy rainfall. The heavens opened midway, forcing the likes of Tapu Barman and Sohel Rana to retreat from the sodden turf. Yet spirits remain high.
"This is a vital fixture for us," said custodian Mitul Marma of Dhaka Abahani, who missed the friendly against Nepal for injury.
He added, "We're not looking at rankings or reputations. The only focus is on winning. At home, in front of our supporters, we have to deliver."
Competition for places in the current squad is fierce, something Mitul relishes. "No one can afford to be complacent. We all have to prove ourselves. I'll give my utmost to make sure Bangladesh come out on top."
Bangladesh currently sit third in Group C with a solitary point from two matches, while Hong Kong have four points from as many games. The gulf in points, however, does little to deter midfielder Sohel Rana. His eyes are firmly fixed on using home advantage.
"We want to gift the nation a result to remember," Rana said.
"The coach has been working with us on key areas, and we know a win here could lift us. Playing in front of a packed house always gives us an extra push. We'll fight tooth and nail," he said.
It would be a packed house. Within 30 minutes of release, all 18,000 general gallery tickets were snapped up, a testament to the fervour of Bangladeshi football fans.
Though Hong Kong arrive with a stronger record and, on paper, greater firepower, Rana believes the tide can turn. "If we execute our plans correctly, there's no reason why we cannot beat them. We are a side capable of victory."
