Bangladesh lost to neighbors India in their crucial World Cup and Asian Cup Joint Qualification match 0-2 at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium in Doha, Qatar Monday.
India’s most prolific striker Sunil Chhetri scored a brace in the latter phase of the match to break Bangladesh’s resolute defence, and earn three points.
Bangladesh, who were inspired by a spirited draw against much higher-ranked Afghanistan a few days back, held their fort till 79 minutes before the Indian talisman made a brilliant forward run beating the defence line.
Substitute Ashik Kuruniyan got the ball in the left side and placed a nice cross, which was headed by the experienced poacher for an inch perfect header that beat Bangladesh goalkeeper Anisur Rahman Zico.
Tapu Barman, the hero of Bangladesh’s last match, failed to anticipate the intelligent run of the Indian striker from behind, while the other two defenders were incapable in resisting the cross.
? He’s now got more than Messi! Sunil Chhetri’s double earns the Blue Tigers a 2-0 win in #WCQ and moves him on to 74 international goals – above Lionel Messi and one off entering world football’s all-time top 10 ?♂️@chetrisunil11 | @IndianFootball pic.twitter.com/sCCd6BgS9H
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 7, 2021
Bangladesh tried to find a late equalizer but the Indian defence, which showed resilience against strong Qatar, was unfazed, and Chhetri netted his second in the dying moments of the game when he received a cutback from Suresh Singh to put the ball in the top left corner of the post from the center of the box.
Despite the disappointing finish Bangladesh showcased resistance for major periods of the game.
Zico saved in two one-on-one situations, in the 15th and 18th minute, before Riyadul Hasan Rafi made a goal-line clearance in the 35th minute.
Bangladesh got their only big chance of the game in the 39th minute, but the back-header of Tariq Kazi off Rahmat Mia was gripped by Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh.
With the loss, Bangladesh stayed at the bottom of the five-team Group E with two points from seven matches, while India are now in third position, above Afghanistan, with six points from the same number of outings.
