New Delhi: A last minute goal by Sagar Thapa gave Nepal a 1-0 win over Bangladesh while Pakistan and the Maldives played out a goalless draw in the SAFF Cup football tournament at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Sunday.
Nepal fought it out with Bangladesh, the highest ranked team in the tournament, and just when it looked that both teams would settle for a draw, Thapa's stunning free-kick in the 93rd minute foxed Bangladesh goalkeeper Sahidul Alam to give his team full points
Nepal started with Jumanu Rai replacing Santhosh Khala, who was impressive in the 1-1 draw with the Maldives in their opening match. Bangladesh made four changes to their line-up with Mamunul Mamun being left out due to health concerns.
Nepal now are sitting atop in Group B with four points while the Maldives and Pakistan are second and third with two points each. Bangladesh are fourth with one point.
Title contenders Maldives were held to a goalless draw by a sturdy Pakistan in their second league match.
With their second draw in as many matches, Maldives are now on two points and need a victory against Bangladesh in their Group B to confirm their place in the semifinals.
Pakistan are also on two points from two draws, having played out another goalless draw against Bangladesh in their campaign opener on Friday.
They need to win against Nepal in their last league match to qualify for the semi-finals.
Comments
0 comment