Draw against Maldives, Bangladesh semi-final uncertain
September 22, 20242 Mins Read
Sports Desk: SAF Under-17 Championship is going on in Bhutan. Bangladesh, who started the tournament with a loss against India, drew with Maldives in their second match. The path of the red-greens to the last four has become uncertain.
Bangladesh had no choice but to win against Maldives today to secure a semi-final spot. However, Bangladesh drew 1-1 after taking the lead in their second and last match in the 'A' group at the Changlimithang Stadium in Bhutan.
From the start of the match, Bangladesh's youngsters dominated the game. However, Saiful Bari Titu's disciples were repeatedly losing the ball in attack due to the weakness of finishing. After many attempts, Bangladesh got the desired goal at the beginning of the second half.
Morshed's curling left-footed shot from just above the box eluded the goalkeeper and into the net. In the 68th minute, the opportunity to double the gap came in front of the youth of red and green. However, the referee whistled for a foul after Apu netted the ball from Morshed's cross.
Maldives equalized after 10 minutes. Disciples of Titu drowned in despair due to the failure of defense. Captain Mohammad Ilan Imran hit the target with a long cross from the team-mate and a corner shot between the two defenders.
After that, Bangladesh had the opportunity to return to the lead several more times. However, Morshed, Nazmul missed the opportunity and the red and greens could not move forward. Bangladesh has to be satisfied with the draw.
Unable to win this match, Bangladesh is in doubt about the semi-final game. In the first match, Titu's disciples lost 1-0 to India with a last-minute goal. Morsheds have to look at the opponents of the first match to go to the last four.
India tops Group A with 3 points. Maldives is second and Bangladesh is third with equal 1 point. India and Maldives will meet in the last match of the group on Tuesday. Which two teams will get semi-final ticket from 'A' group will depend on the result of this match.
Even if they draw against India, Maldives will reach the top four. However, if they lose by 2 goals, Bangladesh will get the semi ticket.
