The draw for the AFC Challenge League was conducted on Thursday, and it has placed the champions of the Bangladesh Premier Football League, Bashundhara Kings, in Group 'A'. This group also features India's East Bengal, Lebanon's Nejmeh SC, and Bhutan's Paro FC, promising a competitive set of fixtures.
The Challenge League's West Zone is structured into three groups, each comprising four teams, making a total of 12 teams. The format dictates that the champions of each group, along with the best runner-up across the groups, will advance to the next round. For Bashundhara Kings to progress, they must either secure the top spot in their group or be among the best second-placed teams, determined by points and goal difference.
The group stage matches of the AFC Challenge League are scheduled to take place from 26th October to 2nd November. Paro FC, the host for Group 'A', will welcome Bashundhara Kings to Thimphu's Changlimithang Stadium, where the matches will be held.
Bashundhara Kings have previously travelled to the Maldives and India for AFC Cup matches, but this will mark their inaugural visit to Bhutan. Due to logistical challenges, including flight availability, Bhutan is seldom chosen as a host for AFC tournaments. This makes the upcoming matches in Thimphu a unique and significant event for both the team and the tournament.
The Kings' participation in the AFC Challenge League is a testament to their growing stature in Asian football. Their journey through the group stage will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as they aim to make a mark on the continental stage. The inclusion of strong teams like East Bengal and Nejmeh SC in their group adds to the anticipation and excitement surrounding their matches.
As the Kings prepare for this challenging campaign, their focus will be on strategic gameplay and robust performance to ensure they advance to the next round. The team's management and players are likely to emphasise the importance of every match, given the competitive nature of the group and the high stakes involved.
In summary, the AFC Challenge League draw has set the stage for an exciting series of matches for Bashundhara Kings. Their performance in Group 'A' will not only reflect their capabilities but also contribute to the broader narrative of Bangladeshi football's rise on the Asian stage.
