India edge-out Sri Lanka 2-0

By Susil Premalal reporting from Bangladesh

India defeated Sri Lanka 2-0 in their South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Cup Tournament Group ‘B’ opening encounter worked off at the Bangabandhu National Stadium in Dhaka, Bangladesh on Wednesday (5).

The Indians dominated the entire match with Ashique and Chhangte scoring a goal each which put them on top of Group ‘B’ which also includes Maldives.

In fact, India made the initial attack as Ashique made inroad through the left-hand side forcing the Sri Lankan goal-keeper to punch the ball away to safety.

Two minutes later, India won a corner but Sri Lanka converted the set-piece into a counter-attack before defender Sajid came up with a timely clearance.

India scored their first goal in the 35th minute with forward Ashique taking the ball on the right side before applying a cool finish towards the far corner to beat the Sri Lankan goal-keeper.

Sri Lanka then came close to equalising in the 37th minute with Mohammad Fazal missing the mark with a long range effort.

India further increased the lead and virtually sealed the contest in their favour two minutes after the resumption following another superb team effort.

Chhangte took the ball on the left-hand and attempted a cross towards the far post and Sujan Perera was unable to read it as it curled into the top corner.

Sri Lanka faces Maldives in their second match of the tournament on Friday.