Bangladesh trails Singapore 1-0 at half-time

Bangladesh went into the half-time break trailing 1-0 against Singapore in their final Asian Cup qualifying match at Singapore National Stadium on Wednesday evening. 

Despite dominating early possession and creating several chances, Bangladesh failed to convert, while Singapore capitalized on a counterattack.

The first goal came in the 31st minute when a fast break saw Kueh’s shot saved by goalkeeper Mitul Marma Ikhsan Fandi, who set up Harris Stewart for a precise finish past defenders Tariq Kazi and Shakil Ahad Topu.

Bangladesh had chances to equalize, including a blocked shot from Sheikh Morsalin in the box and a long throw leading to a near strike from Saad Uddin and Fahim, but the referee denied a penalty appeal after a challenge from Singapore defender Baharuddin.

Singapore made an early substitution in the 45th minute when Glen Kueh was replaced by Ilhan Fandi, allowing all three Fandi brothers to be on the field simultaneously.

Bangladesh coach Javier Cabrera made two changes to the starting lineup from the friendly against Vietnam, bringing in goalkeeper Marma and forward Morsalin. 

Captain Sohel Rana leads the side, with key players Hamza Choudhury and Samit Shome in attack.

Bangladesh will look to turn the game around in the second half as they aim to finish their qualifying campaign on a strong note.

SH