Rapid strike keeps Bangladesh women ahead at half-time against Maldives

Bangladesh raced into an early lead through Anika Rania Siddiqui within seconds of kick-off, forcing Maldives onto the back foot in the Women’s SAFF Championship Group B clash in Goa.

They went close to doubling the lead on several occasions on Thursday, striking the post and crossbar in a spell of sustained pressure before Umehla Marma made it 2-0 in the 34th minute.

Maldives, however, found a late response against the run of play to make it 2-1 before the break.

Bangladesh are without Sheuli Azim and Monika Chakma, while Momita Khatun and Surovi Akter Arfin made their debuts.