Bangladesh Stuns Maldives 2-1 in Thrilling Second Match
Bangladesh delivered a stunning comeback to defeat the visiting Maldives 2-1 in the second match of the FIFA Tier-1 International Friendly series, held at the Bashundhara Kings Arena on Saturday. This victory not only marked the end of 2024 on a high note for the home side but also leveled the series 1-1.
The match seemed destined for a draw as the 90 minutes concluded at 1-1. However, in the third minute of the seven-minute injury time, substitute Papon Singh emerged as the hero for Bangladesh. Keeping his composure under pressure, Singh scored the decisive goal, saving his team from a series defeat at home.
Earlier in the game, Ali Fasir, who had been Maldives' star in the first match, put his team ahead in the 23rd minute. Capitalizing on a defensive error by Topu Barman, Fasir latched onto a through pass from Ibrahim and sent a well-placed left-footed shot into the net from inside the danger zone.
Bangladesh had a chance to equalize in the 39th minute, but Sheikh Morsalin squandered the opportunity. Fahim’s powerful strike, deflected by Maldives goalkeeper Hussain Shareef, fell to Morsalin, but his shot sailed over the crossbar.
The home side finally leveled the score in the 42nd minute, courtesy of Mojibor Rahman Jony. Receiving a close pass from Fahim, Jony unleashed a powerful right-footed shot from the top of the D-box, evading a defender and beating Shareef despite his diving attempt.
In the second half, both teams pushed hard for the lead, creating multiple scoring chances. Debutant Piash Ahmed Nova missed a golden opportunity for Bangladesh when he hesitated to shoot despite finding the Maldives goalkeeper isolated under the bar.
Bangladesh came close again in the 86th minute when Topu Barman’s header off Rahmat Mia’s free kick narrowly missed the target.
It was in injury time that Papon Singh sealed the victory. His composed finish from the danger zone left goalkeeper Hussain Shareef helpless, sparking celebrations among the home fans.
This win was a much-needed boost for Bangladesh, who had a challenging year. In 2024, the team played eight matches, including four World Cup qualifiers and four FIFA friendlies. They managed two wins—against Bhutan and Maldives—while losing six. The team struggled offensively, scoring only three goals throughout the year.
Notable figures, including Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain and Bangladesh Football Federation President Tabith Awal, attended the match, alongside the members of Bangladesh’s SAFF-winning women’s football team, who cheered on the home side.
Bangladesh's squad featured Topu Barman, Md Ridoy, Sheikh Morsalin, Rakib Hossain, Foysal Ahmed Fahim, Mitul Marma, Shakil Ahad Topu, captain Sohel Rana, Isa Faisal, Mojibor Rahman Jony, and Saad Uddin.
More: Windies Bounce Back with Thrilling High-Scoring Win Over England
