Reigning champion Palestine clinched a hard-fought victory over a spirited Seychelles side by a solitary goal to make it to the final of the Bangabandhu Gold Cup for the second successive time Wednesday.
Forward Layth Kharoub netted the all-important goal in the 79th minute with a brilliant strike from a difficult angle after midfielder Mahmoud Abuwarda set him up inside the box with a defence-splitting lob.
“Glad to be in the final after a tough game. Seychelles played a fighting and aggressive game which made it difficult. Our players also looked relaxed after four days of rest before the semi-final.” said Palestine coach Makram Daboubi in the post-match press conference.
A more organized Seychelles gave hard time to Palestine players who looked a bit relaxed after two comfortable wins in the group stage, but none could create notable chances throughout the game.
Palestine's Layth Kharoub controls the ball Dhaka Tribune/Md Manik
Seychelles striker Perry Moniaie tested the Palestine goalkeeper two minutes after the break but despite a good run through the right flank, his poor final effort was an easy catch.
“It was unlucky. We were very disciplined and much organized until we conceded a beautiful goal. We played three matches in six days but players gave their best. I’m happy with the performance,” said Seychelles coach Ralph Jean Louis.
Palestine will face either Bangladesh or Burundi in the final at the same venue Saturday.
