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| Afghanistan players responded in style to Urbanyi's |
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Dhaka, BANGLADESH – Maldives grabbed another disaster in regional football after they slumped to a 1-0 defeat in the hands of the so called minnows Afghanistan. Maldives dominated the first half of the game and created chances after chances to score but the poor finishing cost them heavily and it was a surprise to see deadly striker Ashfaq was given a more midfield role.
Before the game Maldives coach Urbanyi sent a strong message to Afghanistan saying “Stop Us” and they replied to it perfectly.
In the 3rd minute Ashfaq supplied a good low cross to Nafiu but he failed to kick it properly and sent the ball wide from close range.
Best chance of the game came in the 16th minute. Nafiu picked a through ball and only the keeper to beat he shot the ball wide.
In the dying minutes of the half, Akram supplied a cross from left wing but the ball was cleared by Afghanistan defenders.
Afghanistan came stronger in the second half and Maldives failed to continue the type of game they enjoyed in the first half.
In the 71st minute Afghanistan got their first chance of the game but the close range shot was well saved by keeper Faisal.
In the next minute on a counter attack Afghanistan broke the dead lock.
Tension from the players rose as the game reaches the end. Ismail Easa and Hussain Latheef were given the marching orders before Afghanistan skipper being sent off for a foul on Mukhthar Naseer in the extra period of the game.
After the game, Maldivian journalists had a tough time finding coach Urbanyi for a comment.
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