ছবি: Photo: Collected
Bangladesh wrapped up their final match of 2024 on a high note with a nail-biting 2-1 victory over Maldives, thanks to Papon Singh’s decisive stoppage-time goal. The win, played at the Kings Arena, marked only the second victory in eight matches for Javier Cabrera’s team this year.
A Nervy Start and Costly Error
The match began on shaky ground for Bangladesh, as defensive lapses nearly cost them dearly. Veteran defender Topu Barman’s crucial mistake in the 24th minute gifted the Maldives their opening goal. His misplaced pass allowed Ibrahim Mahadi to send a through ball to Ali Fasir, who calmly slotted it past the Bangladeshi defense for the lead. Notably, Fasir had also scored in their previous encounter.
Bangladesh’s Fightback
Despite the early setback, the home team maintained relentless pressure. In the 40th minute, Rakib Hossain’s precise cross led to a Faisal Ahmed shot, which was saved by the Maldives goalkeeper. The rebound fell to Sheikh Morsalin, but his effort sailed over the crossbar. Three minutes later, Bangladesh equalized as Mojibur Rahman Jony, returning to the starting lineup, skillfully found the net with a long-range effort, injecting confidence into the hosts.
Second-Half Drama and the Winning Moment
Substitutes Shahriar Emon and Chandan Roy injected pace into the game in the second half, while debutant Piyas Ahmed Nova added fresh energy to the attack. Although Nova came close to scoring, his chance was thwarted by Maldives goalkeeper Hussain Sharif.
Bangladesh kept the pressure on, and their persistence paid off in the third minute of added time. Shahriar Emon’s pinpoint cross found Papon Singh, whose clinical finish sealed the much-needed victory for Bangladesh.
Post-Match Reactions
Head coach Javier Cabrera was visibly pleased in the post-match press conference, crediting the players for executing the game plan effectively. “Missed chances are part of the game, but today the boys capitalized when it mattered. It was a good match for us,” Cabrera remarked.
A Star-Studded Audience
The electrifying match was witnessed by notable figures, including sports advisor Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, former national cricket team captain Tamim Iqbal, and Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) President Tabith Awal. Tamim praised the facilities at Kings Arena, stating, “The environment here is incredible. Not just the field, but the entire complex is remarkable. Kudos to Bashundhara Group. Football remains a cherished sport in Bangladesh.”
This thrilling win brings a positive end to Bangladesh’s football campaign in 2024, offering hope and momentum for the upcoming year.
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