Maldives lead at half-time, as captain Ilan scores against Nepal

Maldives have renewed hopes of semifinals, taking the lead at half-time against Nepal in the final group fixture of the U20 SAFF Championship.

Today’s game saw Hassan Gais return to the starting line-up, replacing Aidh.

The home side were on the front foot right from kick-off. A shot from Ilan was blocked out by Nepal. Nashiu’s header from the resulting cornerkick had hit the crossbar.

Maldives found the breakthrough in the fifteenth minute of the game – a brilliant through-ball from Ethan found Ilan at the left flank, who fired into the near post from a narrow angle with his left foot.

The score-line stands at 1-0 at half-time. Nepal is yet to make any serious threats on the attack.

A win for Maldives means the qualification would depend on the result of this group’s  last game between Bhutan and Sri Lanka tonight.