Sports Desk: Hosts Bangladesh crashed out of the SAFF Suzuki Cup after suffering a stunning 2-0 defeat to Nepal in their Group ‘A’ last match of seven-nation SAFF Suzuki Cup amid huge crowds under floodlight at Bangabandhu National Stadium on Saturday.
Earlier, Bangladesh conceded one goal in the first half. Despite showing pressing game, Bangladesh conceded a goal in the 33rd minute. Goalkeeper Sahidul Alam failed to tackle Nepal forward Bimal Magar’sleft-footedlong-range free kick shot from the right flank. The ball fired into the highcenterof the goal post as goalie lost his balance after fisting the ball, 1-0.
Bangladesh needed a draw in the match for their semifinal berth.
Coach James Day’s boys’ started to play pressing game from the beginning while Nepal defenders tackling attacks one after another, building up a wall of four defenders and were attempting for quick counters.
Bangladesh missed the first attempt in the 16th minute as midfielder Mahbubur Rahman’s right footed shot from outside the box was blocked by the goalie, off captain Jamal Bhuyan’s pass.