The semifinal berth of Bangladesh from Group A of the six-nation South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) U-17 Championship 2024 has become uncertain after playing a 1-1 draw with Islanders Maldives in their last group match at the Changlimithang Stadium in the Bhutanese capital Thimphu on Sunday (September 22) evening.
In the tournament opener last Friday, Bangladesh faced a disappointing 0-1 defeat against their formidable neighbor India, conceding a goal in injury time after putting up a strong fight during the regular 90 minutes.
However, the semifinal berth of Bangladesh will now depend on India-Maldives last Group A match scheduled for next Tuesday (September 24).
India must defeat the Maldives by at least 2-0 to secure a semifinal berth for Bangladesh.
After a barren first half in the day's match, Murshed Ali put Bangladesh ahead in the 49th minute by a spectacular shot from top of the box, utilizing a left cross of his teammate (1-0).
Maldives captain Mohamed Ilan Imran leveled the margin in the 79th minute by a placing shot beating two opponent defenders and advancing custodian (1-1).
The day's match between teams was locked in a goalless position in the first half.
Bangladesh dominated the first half and did everything except score a goal. They spoiled half dozens of good chances in the half, most of which were saved by Maldives custodians.
In the 2nd half, Bangladesh also maintained its supremacy but failed to take its fruits due to the shakiness of their forwards. Moreover, they conceded a goal against the flow of the match.
Earlier, Bangladesh put in strong Group A in the SAFF Junior meet with stronger India and the Maldives while Group B team consists of Nepal, Pakistan, and hosts Bhutan.
Group A champions will play Group B runners-up in the first semifinal at 2 pm, while Group B champions will face Group A runners-up at 6 pm in the other semifinal on Sept 28.
The final match is scheduled to take place at 6 PM on September 30.
