At the interval of their final U-23 Asian Cup qualifier, Bangladesh and Singapore remain locked at 0-0 in a spirited contest in Vietnam. With both sides already out of contention after defeats to Vietnam and Yemen, this match serves only as a formality. Yet pride is on the line, and both teams have played with intent in the opening half.
Bangladesh looked more organised than in their previous outings, shifting into their rhythm early on. Captain Sheikh Morsalin controlled the attacking midfield areas, while Zayyan Ahmed’s composure in possession provided stability at the leftback.
The key figure, however, was goalkeeper Mehedi Hasan Srabon. On the half-hour mark, he produced a fine save to deny Louka’s effort. His biggest moment came just before the break when Ghadessy lined up a curling free-kick in the second minute of stoppage time. Srabon launched himself fully to his right and pulled off a stunning save to preserve the clean sheet.
Bangladesh also carved out a big chance of their own. Piash Nova’s clever delivery into the box set up Akash, but the forward failed to make the most of it. Mirajul Islam worked hard to stretch Singapore’s backline, though the final pass often let Bangladesh down.
For Singapore, their compact defensive unit absorbed pressure well and looked threatening on the counter. Their sharp play down the wings and occasional long-range efforts kept the Bangladesh defence on alert.
Despite the goalless scoreline, the first half had plenty of action. Bangladesh looked sharper than in their previous matches, building from the back instead of relying solely on long balls. With Srabon in top form and Morsalin continuing to influence play, Bangladesh remain firmly in the contest heading into the second half.
The final 45 minutes will decide whether Bangladesh can end their qualifying campaign with something to cheer about, or if Singapore will find the cutting edge to take all three points.
Bangladesh Starting XI
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GK: Mehedi Hasan Srabon
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DF: Md Rimon Hossain, Md Jahid Shanta, Md Shakil Topu, Md Sabbir Hossen, Zayyan Ahmed
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MF: Sheikh Morsalin (C), Mohsin Ahmed
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FW: Md Piash Nova, Mirajul Islam, Arman Faysal Akash
