Late goal denies Bangladesh

Bangladesh drew India 1-1 in the World Cup 2022 and 2023 AFC Asian Cup qualifying match at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata today.

In a feisty first half, Bangladesh could have had a penalty as early as 20-second mark only for referee to turn down the appeals. India were the superior side but Bangladesh showed great tactical adjustments with a well-organised midfield and defence to thwart the hosts.

Then from a free kick, taken by captain Jamal Bhuiyan, Bangladesh opened the scoring in the 42nd minute. Bhuiya floated in a free-kick into the area and India goalkeeper misjudged the flight of the ball but Sad Uddin was at hand to finish with a header to take Bangladesh to half-time 1-0 up.

Bangladesh created numerous chances in the second half. The men in red then hit the post near the hour mark before India’s Adil Khan saved a chip from Jibon from the goal-line. India pushed for an equaliser and finally found it in the 88th minute with defender Adil scoring from a header following a corner.