MALE: Bangladesh opened their account with a solitary goal (1-0) to win over 10-man Sri Lanka in the opening match of the 13th SAFF Football Championship at the National Stadium in Male.

The all-important goal was scored by Topu Barman from the penalty spot in the 54th minute after a Biplu Ahmed cross intended for Mohammad Ibrahim was handled inside the box by Sri Lankan defender Duckson Puslas.

Topu found the back of the net home off the penalty kick after Puslas received his marching orders following his second yellow card in the match.

The match was Bangladesh's first assignment under Spaniard Oscar Bruzon, who made the switch from managing BPL champions Bashundhara Kings to take over as interim head coach of the national team

For Bangladesh victory was their 11th over Sri Lanka in the 17 occasions they have faced off so far since 1979. Sri Lanka has been able to account for four victories, while two fixtures ended in a draw.

Sri Lanka’s only consolation so far was way back in 2018 where Sri Lanka edged out Bangladesh after a close fight.

Bhutan had earlier informed they would not be able to participate this year due to travel restrictions in and out of the country due to the pandemic.

Five countries out of the seven from the region which includes Maldives, India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka are participating in the championship. 

Bhutan had earlier informed they would not be able to participate this year due to travel restrictions in and out of the country due to the pandemic.

Pakistan, the seventh country of the region, are ineligible to participate because of a FIFA suspension.

The men in red and green will take on archrivals India in their next match at the same venue Monday.

Edited - SportsAction / Inputs - Agency