A wonderful header by Saad Uddin from a curving free kick of captain Jamal Bhuiyan provided Bangladesh lead in the first half of the qualifying match of Qatar World Cup and Asia Cup at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, India on Tuesday.
Saad Uddin scored the goal in the 42nd minute of the match at the jam-packed stadium.
However, a header by Adil Khan from a corner kick in the 88th minute saved India in the match, where Bangladesh defenders otherwise showcased their distinctively improved skill and stamina. Bangladesh goal keeper Ashraful also saved the team at least thrice.
Bangladesh players will rue a number of chances when they would look back at the match as will India.
Nabib Newaj Jibon was deprived from a sure goal when his brilliant chip over the keeper’s head was cleared by Adil Khan in the 73rd minute.
Three minutes later, Bangladesh was saved as Indian captain Sunil Chhetri's glancing header from Brandon's corner flies wide.
Two Bangladesh players – captain Jamal Bhuiyan and Mohammad Nabib Newaj Jibon – were booked yellow cards. Anas Edathodika of India was also booked for his foul play.
Bangladesh opening XI: Ashraful (GK); Yeasin, Rahmat, Jamal (C), Bipoli, Ziban, Sohel Rana, Ibrahim, Riyadul, Rayhan, Saad
India opening XI: Gurpreet (GK); Bheke, Adil, Anas, Mandar; Sahal, Thapa; Chhetri (C), Ashique, Udanta; Manvir.