Bangladesh interim head coach Oscar Bruzon said they were in total control over proceedings against Sri Lanka in the Saff Championship opener in Male Friday, but rued the finishing in the 1-0 win.
The first half ended goalless despite Bangladesh fashioning the better chances and the deadlock was broken in the second half when defender Topu Barman stroked home from the penalty spot after a handball by Duckson Puslas.
"I think we had total control over the game. We wanted to dominate in the central area and the opposition half. In the first half Sri Lanka defended deep in their half, we weren't able to keep control of the ball in some parts. At the end of the first half, we created some good chances down the left wing," said Bruzon after the game.
After the goalless first half, Bruzon decided to bring in forward Sadd Uddin in place of winger Jewel Rana and minutes later Bangladesh took the lead.
The Spanish coach said they decided to change things after the first half whistle, altering the 4-1-4-1 formation to 4-4-2.
"We changed the formation so the defence could be more compact. Bringing in Saad for Jewel also worked for us. As the match progressed we became better than the opposition in terms of physical strength and consistency. Our only concern is finishing. But it is an old problem," said the 44-year old.
"I think we created five-six chances in the second half, but couldn't capitalize on it. We have to work on it moving forward."
He added, "Bangladesh can play some good football, they can control games. I think I have been able to create a fine understanding between the players. The result could have been better had we had enough time for preparation.
"The satisfying thing is we got three points from Topu's goal. If we didn't win, then we would've not been happy with our style and match dominance. I'm saying again I'm not fully satisfied with the team. We have to make the most of at least half the goal-scoring chances we get."
