Bangladesh came from behind to force a 1–1 draw against India in their final Group B match of the SAFF U-20 Championship at the National Football Stadium in Malé, Maldives, on Saturday.
With this result, both Bangladesh and India finished the group stage with four points from two matches each. However, India topped the group due to a superior goal difference, while Bangladesh settled for the runners-up position.
Bangladesh will now face Group A champions Nepal in the first semifinal, scheduled for April 1 at the same venue. India will take on Group A runners-up Bhutan in the second semifinal on the same day.
India took the lead in the 16th minute following a well-executed corner routine. Unmarked Vishal Yadav headed home powerfully from close range at the far post, leaving Bangladesh goalkeeper Mahin with little chance.
Bangladesh responded in the 10th minute of added time to level the score. Sullivan delivered a precise cross from the left, and substitute Abdul Riyad Fahim met it with a powerful volley that found the back of the net.
Earlier in the tournament, Bangladesh defeated Pakistan 2–0, with USA-based striker Ronan Sullivan scoring both goals. India also began their campaign with a convincing 3–0 victory over Pakistan.
The final of the tournament is scheduled for April 3 at the same venue.
Bangladesh U-20 squad: Ismail Hossain Mahin, Ishan Habib Riduan, Mithu Chowdhury, Ashikur Rahman, Kamal Merdha, Chondon Roy, Md Manik, Nazmul Huda, Murshed Ali, Ronan Sullivan, and Sheikh Sangram.
Cox’s Bazar Life Desk/BSS
