Bangladesh is off to a disappointing start in the two-match Bashundhara Group FIFA Tier-1 International friendlies as the hosts suffered a 0-1 goal defeat against Maldives in the first game at the crowded Bashundhara Kings Arena of the Bashundhara Sports Complex on Wednesday.
Midfielder Ali Fasir, who was unmarked inside the box, made no mistake in finding the net while his compatriot midfielder Hamza Mohamed sent him the ball from a free-kick just outside of the box in the 18th minute of the match.
Bangladesh’s star-studded attacking unit, led by forwards Foysal Ahmed Fahim, Rakib Hossain, Sheikh Morsalin and midfielder Sohel Rana, who started to dominate the pitch from the beginning of the match, wasted at least 23 close chances and half-chances from attacks, counter-attacks and set pieces throughout the 90-minute.
But Maldives’ two ironmen -- goalkeeper Hussain Shareef and midfielder Mohamed Irufaan – stole the show as the duo successfully denied all of Bangladesh’s efforts, attempts and attacks inside their box except Sohel’s long shot from outside the box which was deflected by the post in the 44th minute.
Head coach Javier Cabrera made three changes in his previous squad from the second Bhutan friendly which was held on 8 September.
Forward Rakib Hossain, midfielder Syed Shah Quazem Kirmane and defender Shakil Ahad Topu were added in the day’s match.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
