India rout Maldives in SAFF

Defending champions India defeated the Maldives by 2-0 goals in the Group ‘B’ last match of the seven-nation SAFF Suzuki Cup at Bangabandhu National Stadium (BNS) on Sunday.

India took the lead in the 36th minute as midfielder Nikhil Poojari’s right footed shot from the centre of the box fired the bottom right corner of the post, 1-0.

Indian forward Manvir Singh doubled the winning margin in the 44th minute by a right footed shot from the left side of the box to find the bottom right corner of the post off defender Jerry Lalrinzuala pass, 2-0.

Seven times champions India dominated throughout the match in terms of keeping 60 percent ball positions, but the Maldives were ahead of India in the contest in consideration of fruitless attacks.

India created eight attempts whiles the Maldives 14.

India will play Group ‘A’ runners-up Pakistan in the second semifinal while the Maldives will take on Group ‘A’ Champions Nepal in the 1st semifinal, both at BNS on 12 September.

Despite the day’s loss, the Maldives reached into the semi-finals from three-team Group ‘B’, favoured by toss winning.

The Maldives and Sri Lanka tied on one point each from two games apiece with a draw and a loss against India by 0-2 margins.

Sri Lanka eliminated from the race, starting the campaign with 0-2 against India and a goalless loss against the Maldives.