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The Maldives have suffered their first ever defeat to Pakistan in SAFF Championship history, losing 3-0 in their second group stage match in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Mariyam Adheela
DHAKA, Bangladesh: The Maldives suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Pakistan in the SAFF Championship on Sunday, with two early goals putting the national team under pressure at the National Football Stadium in Dhaka.
Pakistan made a strong start, scoring twice within the opening 10 minutes and taking control of the match with an aggressive attacking approach.
The opening goal came from a penalty converted by Mikiyal Haroon Abdullah, giving Pakistan an early advantage after a quick counterattack exposed the Maldivian defence.
Pakistan continued to capitalise on defensive gaps, with Najeebullah scoring the second goal after receiving an unmarked pass inside the Maldives penalty area.
Pakistan increased their advantage through Mujeebullah, who found the net to make it 3-0 and put the Maldives in a difficult position before half time.
The Maldives made changes after the break and showed improvement in the second half, creating more attacking opportunities and putting greater pressure on Pakistan’s defence.
However, the national team were unable to convert their chances into goals, leaving Pakistan to secure a convincing victory.
The victory confirmed Pakistan’s place in the semi finals, taking their tally to three points with a goal difference of plus two.
The Maldives must now turn their attention to their remaining group match against India. A four goal victory over India would be required for the Maldives to qualify for the semi finals.
