Dhaka: The first half of the highly anticipated FIFA International Friendly match between Bangladesh and the Maldives concluded with a 1-1 draw at the Bashundhara Kings Sports Arena on Saturday. The match, which forms part of a two-match series, saw both teams showcasing their skills in a tightly contested game. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Maldives took an early lead in the 23rd minute with a goal by Ali Fasir, who capitalized on a defensive error by Bangladesh's Topu Barman. Fasir, who had been a standout performer in the first match, continued his impressive form by deftly converting a pass from Ibrahim into a left-footed goal from within the danger zone. Despite the setback, Bangladesh responded with determination and came close to equalizing in the 39th minute. Faisal Ahmed Fahim's shot from the D-box, set up by a cross from Rakib Hossain, was expertly saved by Maldives' goalkeeper Hussain Shareef. However, Bangladesh's persistence paid off just three minutes later when Mojibor Rahman Jony scored a powerful right-footed goal from the top of the D-box, leveling the score at 1-1. Jony's goal came after a well-executed pass from Fahim, and despite Shareef's diving attempt, he could not prevent the goal. In a strategic move, Bangladesh made a change to their lineup before the match, bringing Mojibor Rahman Jony into the starting eleven in place of Syed Shah Quazem Kirmanee. Additionally, Sohel Rana took over as captain from Topu Barman. This match is crucial for Bangladesh, as they need to secure a victory in the second match to avoid losing the series after their narrow 1-0 defeat in the first encounter. Bangladesh's squad for the match included Topu Barman, Md Ridoy, Sheikh Morsalin, Rakib Hossain, Foysal Ahmed Fahim, Mitul Marma, Shakil Ahad Topu, Sohel Rana (captain), Isa Faisal, Mojibor Rahman Jony, and Saad Uddin.
