The national team has defeated Bangladesh 3 goals to 1, to claim the first semi-final spot in the SAFF Suzuki Cup.
Team captain Ali Ashfaq claimed the first goal of the match late in the first half, by converting a penalty to a stunning goal. With four minutes left to the end of the match, Bangladesh scored the equalizer.
Substitutes Hassan Naiz and Ahmed Nashid brought a stunning conclusion in the final minutes of the match and the in the extra time, ensuring that Maldives claimed the first semi-final spot in the goal.
Following the impressive display, the Maldivian Coach, Ricky Herbert has been praised for giving the opportunity to young players. Many have remarked that it was this decision that had ultimately saved the team from an equalizer.
The match was played in front of many enthusiastic Maldivian supporters, many of whom had flown in especially for the match.
The Maldivian Consul in Trivandrum had issued 2000 tickets for the match.
Maldives secures semi spot after thrashing Bangladesh
