Dhaka, Sep 06 (V7N) - In a tight FIFA International Friendly match at Changlimithang Football Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan, Bangladesh emerged victorious with a 1-0 win, thanks to a crucial goal by forward Sheikh Morsalin.
The match saw a slow start, with Bangladesh struggling to gain an early advantage. However, Morsalin capitalized on a mistake by the Bhutanese goalkeeper. After a cross from Rakib Hossain from the right wing, the Bhutan custodian failed to control the ball, allowing Morsalin to score with a simple push.
Bhutan had a chance to level the score in the 19th minute when a header from defender Yeshey narrowly missed the target, hitting the left side post.
In the second half, Bhutan intensified their efforts to equalize. They came close in the 75th minute when substitute midfielder Pradhan missed a close-range opportunity. Bangladesh also had a chance to extend their lead, but a powerful long-range shot by substitute forward Rahul was expertly saved by the Bhutanese goalkeeper.
Despite the win, Bangladesh’s performance was lackluster, especially given their three-month hiatus from competitive football. The team struggled to apply pressure and had few shots on target. The high altitude of Thimphu also posed challenges for the players. Bhutan, despite being the host, also failed to assert dominance, particularly in the first half.
The two teams will face off again in the second and final match of the series on Sunday (September 8) at the same venue.
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