Girls eye final

Bangladesh will look forward to securing a spot in the final of the AFC Under-14 Girls’ Regional Championship when they take on hosts Tajikistan in the second semifinal at the Aviator Stadium in Dushanbe today.

The teams have only met once before, in the same tournament in 2013, when the game ended in a 2-2 tie.

Defending champions Bangladesh seem to be in high spirits going into the final, especially after their commanding performances in the group-stage matches where they notched up a maiden win over India and then thumped last edition’s runners-up Nepal 9-0.

The hosts confirmed their semifinal berth after beating Bhutan 4-1, before playing out a 1-1 draw against Kyrgyzstan.

Bangladesh’s striking pair of Marzia and Anuching Mogini have been in great form so far in the tournament, striking a treble each against Nepal, while midfielder Tahura Khatun scored a brace in both matches. Coach Golam Rabbani Choton had nothing but praise for his charges as they put up a collective performance in both matches. 

“The girls played brilliant football against India and Nepal and if they can continue to perform at their natural best then tomorrow [Saturday], we can expect a win over Tajikistan,” said Choton over the phone yesterday.

Choton believes his players are now more mature than the squad that won the regional championship last year as all the players have gained experience from participating in the national women's championship.

“We all are in good condition and we have the confidence to beat Tajikistan. Please pray for us,” said Tahura Khatun adding that she wants to keep her golden scoring run going.

India and Iran will play the first semifinal at the Almosy Academy Stadium today as well.