Bangladesh men’s hockey team showed determination in their opening match of the 12th Men’s Hockey Asia Cup but ultimately suffered a 4-1 defeat to tournament favourites Malaysia at the Rajgir Sports Stadium in Bihar, India today.
Drafted into the tournament at short notice as a replacement for Pakistan, Moshiur Rahman Biplob’s side had just under three weeks of preparation. Despite the limited build-up, the performance marked a significant improvement on their 8-1 loss to Malaysia in the 2022 edition.
Penalty corner specialist Ashraful Islam, who scored Bangladesh’s only goal in that previous encounter, once again found the net, giving his side a surprise lead in the 16th minute with a well-taken penalty corner after a disciplined defensive effort frustrated Malaysia in the opening quarter.
Malaysia responded nine minutes later, with Ashran Hamsani levelling from open play in the 25th minute. Akhimullah Anuar then put his side ahead just before the break, scoring Malaysia’s second goal in the 36th minute, also from open play.
While Bangladesh managed to hold off the Malaysian attack during the third quarter, their fitness levels waned in the final period. Malaysia capitalised, adding two more goals through Muhajir Abu Rauf in the 48th minute and Syed Cholan in the 54th minute to seal the 4-1 victory.
