Bangladesh put up a spirited first-half performance but conceded a late goal to enter halftime 1-0 down against Singapore in their Asian Cup qualifier on Tuesday.
The match also marked the international debut of Canada-based midfielder Shamit Shome, who replaced Jamal Bhuyan in the starting XI.
Bangladesh started aggressively but failed to convert chances, with Rakib Hossain missing a close-range opportunity in the 15th minute. Against the run of play, Singapore’s Song Ui-young scored just before halftime (45’), capitalizing on a defensive lapse.
Earlier, Bangladesh coach Javier Cabrera made three changes from the Bhutan match, including benching Sohail Rana (who scored last game) for Mohammad Hridoy. The team lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Bangladesh XI: Mitul Marma (GK), Tapon Barman, Tariq Kazi, Sadeuddin, Shakil Ahmed, Hamza Chowdhury, Shamit Shome, Hridoy, Kazem Shah, Fahimul Islam, Rakib Hossain.
Singapore XI: Izwan Mahbud, Amirul Adli, Jordan Emaviwe, Ryhan Stewart, Safuwan Baharudin, Shah Shahiran, Hariss Harun, Hami Syahin, Song Ui-young, Harris Stewart, Ikhsan Fandi.
Bangladesh must find an equalizer in the second half to keep their Asian Cup qualification hopes alive.
