Bangladesh football team conceded a narrow 1-0 defeat to the visiting Maldives side in the first of the two-match FIFA international friendly series at Bashundhara Kings Arena in the capital Wednesday (Nov 13). The hosts had better possession, dominated the game and created more chances but could not find the net, while the Maldives scored in their very first attempt. Ali Fasir, who was unmarked inside the box, made no mistake in the 18th minute.
Bangladesh’s 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.
The two sides will take on each other in the second and last match of the FIFA international friendly series at the same venue Saturday (Nov 16).
Bangladesh squad
Topu Barman (captain), Md Ridoy, Sheikh Morsalin, Rakib Hossain, Foysal Ahmed Fahim, Mitul Marma, Shakil Ahad Topu, Sohel Rana, Isa Faisal, Syed Shah Quazem Kirmanee and Sadd Uddin.
