Defending champions Afghanistan and Maldives recorded comfortable victories over Bhutan and Bangladesh, respectively, in the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championships here today.
Afghanistan registered a comprehensive 3-0 win over Himalayan nation Bhutan, while in the day's first match Maldives defeated Bangladesh 3-1 to almost confirm a semi-final berth at the Trivandrum International Stadium.
Khaibar Amani scored two goals, in the 14th and 51st minutes while, Masih Saighani found the net on the 43rd minute to ensure an easy win for Afghanistan. For all their hard work, Bhutan are out of the tournament.
In the other match, Maldives rode on strikes from their star striker Ali Ashfaq (43rd minute), Naiz Hassan (90th minute) and Ahmed Nashid (90th minute).
Maldives captain Ali Ashfaq made it 1-0 when he successfully converted from the spot after Imaaz Ahmed's pass touched Waly Faisal's arm inside the box.
The equaliser came in the 86th minute as a long range attempt from Topuc took a deflection off Hemonta Biswas and found the back of the net.
Maldives pulled one back immediately as substitute Hassan Naiz scored with his first touch.
Ahmed Nashid added more misery to Bangladesh as the winger made it 3-1 for Maldives just before the final whistle.
