The Pakistan men’s under-20 team gave everything in a valiant first half but unfortunately lost to Bangladesh by 2-0 in the SAFF U-20 Championship Group ‘B’ encounter.
Pakistan fall to Bangladesh in SAFF U20 opener
ISLAMABAD, Mar 24 (APP):The Pakistan men’s under-20 team gave everything in a valiant first half but unfortunately lost to Bangladesh by 2-0 in the SAFF U-20 Championship Group ‘B’ encounter.
Pakistan had matched Bangladesh stride for stride for long periods of this encounter, competed with intensity and belief, and thought briefly that they had forced their way back into the game, only to have the moment snatched away, said a press release.
Bangladesh took the lead courtesy of a free-kick by debutant Ronan Benjamin Sullivan in the 50th minute. Pakistan believed they had equalised in the 60th minute through Najeebullah’s header, only for the referee to rule out the goal.
Seven minutes later, Sullivan sealed the win for Bangladesh with a smart finish in a result that flattered Bangladesh and offered Pakistan precious little consolation.
Pakistan will play India next in a must-win game on March 26 and hope for India to defeat Bangladesh in order to have any hopes of qualifying for the semis.
