Rahul Bheke Emphasizes the Need for Victory in Upcoming Matches Against Maldives and Bangladesh

Shillong, March 17 (NationPress) The Indian senior men’s football team has completed two training sessions in Shillong and is preparing diligently for the AFC Asian Cup Qualifier against Bangladesh (March 25) and a friendly match against the Maldives (March 19). Defender Rahul Bheke insists that anything short of a win in these two matches would be considered a failure for the team.

Bheke, who has previously faced the Maldives once and Bangladesh twice in 2021, acknowledged that all three teams have evolved significantly over the past four years.

"I have faced both teams before, but it has been a while since our last encounters. I have reviewed their recent match footage. Both sides are strong contenders aiming for Asian Cup qualification. Therefore, we must give our utmost effort. These two home games are ones we absolutely need to win," he stated.

The Maldives' squad of 22 players arrived in the Meghalaya capital on Sunday and will conduct two training sessions before taking on the Blue Tigers.

Bheke, who netted a goal in India's last match against Malaysia in November, commented, "Our camp has started well, with two robust training sessions. We have two more days to prepare before our friendly, which is excellent preparation for the match on the 25th (against Bangladesh). I believe Maldives will provide a good challenge as they share similarities with Bangladesh."

Having played in Shillong multiple times throughout his domestic career, the 34-year-old expressed his enthusiasm about representing India in this location and hopes for a packed Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium during the two matches.

"I have previously played in Shillong during the I-League and recently visited with Bengaluru FC to compete against NorthEast United. The weather was quite cold last time, but this time it’s perfect for football. Everyone enjoyed practicing on this pitch. We expect a great atmosphere and loud support," he remarked.

"We experienced that during the ISL, where the stadium was filled. We anticipate similar or even larger crowds for the India matches," added the defender.

Bheke is recognized as an attacking threat during set pieces, having established himself as a goal-scoring defender. He effectively showcased his knack for being in the right place at the right time this season, contributing three goals for Bengaluru in the ISL 2024-25.

His extra-time winner for the Blues in the 2018-19 final against FC Goa stands as a career highlight. His two goals for India have also come from corners. However, for Bheke, success hinges not just on him but on the collective effort of every player and coach involved.

"When it comes to set pieces, it’s not about a single individual; it’s about the entire team and the coordination involved – from the delivery to the players blocking and the final touch. Everything must be flawless. If everyone else fulfills their roles but I miss my chance, it’s a complete loss for the team. Thus, synergy is essential to score goals," he explained.

"And it’s not solely about me; there are other players who also score from set pieces, providing us with an advantage. We understand that sometimes games can be decided through set pieces. It’s one of our strengths," Bheke noted.

Also bolstering India’s strength is Sunil Chhetri, with whom Bheke shares the dressing room at Bengaluru FC. However, even he was unaware of Chhetri’s return to the national squad.

"I genuinely didn't know he was returning to the national team. He informed us of his decision during BFC training the same day his return was announced. I think it’s fantastic for the team as he is currently the top Indian goalscorer in the league. His presence will be incredibly beneficial. We all recognize what he can contribute both on and off the pitch with his leadership," Bheke shared.