March 24, (V7N) — USA‑based striker Ronan Sullivan scored a brace as Bangladesh defeated Pakistan 2‑0 in their opening Group B encounter of the SAFF U‑20 Championship at the National Football Stadium in Malé, Maldives today.

The Sullivan brothers — Ronan and Declan, both of Bangladeshi origin — were in the spotlight even before the match. While Declan was not in the starting eleven, Ronan showcased his attacking flair, giving Bangladesh a dream start to the tournament.

Pakistan held Bangladesh to a goalless first half, but the deadlock was broken in the 54th minute when Ronan calmly slotted home the opener. He doubled the lead in the 67th minute, sealing victory for the young Bangladesh side.

Bangladesh will play their final group match against India on Saturday (March 28), following the Pakistan‑India clash on Thursday (March 26). The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals on April 1, with the final scheduled for April 3 at the same venue.

Bangladesh squad: Md Ismail Hossain Mahin, Md Mithu Chowdhury, Ihsan Habib Riduan, Md Kamal Merdha, Chandon Roy, Md Manik, Nazmul Huda Faysal, Md Mursed Ali, Ronan Benjamin Sullivan, Sheikh Sangram, Md Yousuf Ali.

Caption: Ronan Sullivan celebrates after scoring his second goal against Pakistan in Bangladesh’s 2‑0 win at the SAFF U‑20 Championship in Malé.

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