UK-based Farhaan Ali set to make Bangladesh debut against Malaysia

Winger Farhaan Ali Wahid is all set to make his Bangladesh debut when the men in red and green take on Malaysia in the Group A opener of the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup in Indonesia today.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 3:00pm Bangladesh time.

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The UK-based forward is expected to start on the left wing in head coach Thomas Dooley's 4-2-3-1 formation. Fahamedul Islam is likely to operate on the right, while Shamit Shome is expected to play just behind lone striker Rakib Hossain.

Rakib returns to the starting XI after missing Bangladesh's clash against San Marino last June.

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Bangladesh captain Jamal Bhuyan earlier welcomed Farhaan's expected debut in a social media post, writing: “I hope your debut will be what you have dreamt about my brother. Please have Farhan in your prayers.”

In midfield, Hamza Choudhury and Sohel Rana Sr are expected to form the defensive midfield partnership as Bangladesh prepare to face a Malaysia side featuring at least 10 players of heritage or descent from countries including England, Finland, Belgium, Brazil and Argentina.

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At the back, Zayyan Ahmed is set to start at left-back, with Saad Uddin on the right. Tariq Kazi Raihan and Shakil Ahad Topu are expected to form the central defensive partnership.

Thomas Dooley has also placed his trust in goalkeeper Mehedi Hasan Srabon, who is expected to start ahead of Mitul Marma.