In a thrilling encounter, Bangladesh staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the Maldives 2-1 in the second match of their FIFA Tier-International Friendly series. The event took place at the Bashundhara Kings Arena on Saturday, showcasing an impressive performance from the home team.
Bangladesh concluded the year 2024 on a high note, securing a victory that not only marked a successful end to the year but also brought the series to a tie at 1-1.
The referee signalled an additional seven minutes of injury time as the match concluded with a 1-1 draw after ninety minutes. In a dramatic turn of events, substitute Papon Singh netted the decisive goal for Bangladesh during the 3rd minute of injury time. He calmly executed the goal, saving his team from a humiliating series defeat on their home turf.
In the earlier stages of the match, Ali Fasir, who had already made a significant impact for the Maldives in their opening game, once again showcased his talent by securing a well-deserved lead for his team in the 23rd minute. In a pivotal moment of the match, Fasir capitalized on a defensive error by Topu Barman. Receiving a precise pass from Ibrahim, Fasir executed a left-footed shot from within the danger zone, successfully finding the back of the net.
In the 39th minute, Bangladesh had the opportunity to equalize, but Morsalin missed a straightforward chance. Fahim unleashed a powerful shot aimed at the goal, but it was met with a strong fist from Maldives goalkeeper Hussain Shareef, redirecting the ball away from the net. Morsalin attempted the shot, yet the ball flew over the crossbar without causing any threat.
In a pivotal moment of the match, Bangladesh made a significant comeback as Mojibor Rahman Jony equalized in the 42nd minute. In a thrilling display of skill, Jony executed a powerful right-footed shot from the edge of the penalty area, finding the net after skillfully manoeuvring around a defender, following a precise pass from Fahim. Maldives custodian Hussain Shareef attempted to secure the ball as he dove to his right but could not prevent the goal from being scored.
Following the pause, both teams appeared eager to seize the advantage, generating numerous scoring chances.
In a critical moment for Bangladesh, debutant Piash Ahmed Nova squandered a significant scoring opportunity, unable to convert despite facing the Maldives goalkeeper unopposed in front of the goal.
In 2024, Bangladesh participated in eight matches, securing two victories while suffering six defeats. Four of the eight scheduled matches are designated as World Cup qualifiers, while the other four are classified as FIFA friendlies. Bangladesh secured victories against Bhutan and the Maldives in their recent series of four friendly matches.
In their eight matches, Bangladesh found the back of the net just three times, with two goals coming against Maldives and a single goal against Bhutan.
Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain and Bangladesh Football Federation president Tabith Awal were seen enjoying the match that day. The venue saw the presence of the SAFF-winning Bangladesh women’s football team, who were there to inspire the current Bangladesh team.
In a tense moment during the 86th minute, Bangladesh faced disappointment as Topu Barman’s header, following a free kick from Rahmat Mia taken from close range, just missed the target.
In a thrilling conclusion to the match, substitute midfielder Papon Signh emerged as the standout performer for Bangladesh, securing the victory in injury time of the second half. His expertly placed shot from the danger zone left Maldives goalkeeper Hussain Shareef with no opportunity to respond.
In the opening match, Bangladesh faced a narrow defeat against the Maldives, losing by a single goal at the same venue.
The Bangladesh squad includes Topu Barman, Md Ridoy, Sheikh Morsalin, Rakib Hossain, Foysal Ahmed Fahim, Mitul Marma, Shakil Ahad Topu, Sohel Rana serving as captain, Isa Faisal, Mojibor Rahman Jony, and Saad Uddin.
