Under strength Nepal is playing its first friendly match against full strength Bangladesh today at Bangabandhu stadium.

Team Nepal is crippled with COVID infention cases as its eight players (Five of them are regulars) are infected with virus and aren't involved with the team. Six new players are in the team.

Coach Bal Gopal Maharjan clearly said that he wasn't worried about the absence of the players as he mentioned the match was preparation for upcoming FIFA qualifiers.

"We want to play our best. Situation is difficult for us but we are ready for the match", coach Maharjan told press in Dhaka on Thursday.

Bangladesh coach Jamie Day said his focus was to get match fitness rather than focusing on winning.

The match will be played at Bangabandhu stadium at 4:45 PM NST.