Bangladesh end Asian Cup qualifiers campaign with defeat to Singapore

Bangladesh ended their AFC Asian Cup qualifying campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat away to Singapore on Tuesday.

Javier Cabrera’s side struggled to find rhythm in the opening half and fell behind in the 31st minute, when Singapore’s Harhys Stewart finished from close range to give the hosts the lead.

Bangladesh improved after the break and pushed for an equaliser, creating their best chance in the 79th minute. Forward Mirajul Islam came agonisingly close, but his deft touch struck the post after a dangerous delivery from Hamza Choudhury.

Despite the late pressure, Bangladesh were unable to find a way back as the match ended in a narrow loss.

The result meant Bangladesh finished third in Group C with five points from six matches, registering one win, two draws and three defeats. Singapore topped the group with 14 points, followed by Hong Kong, while India finished bottom.

Bangladesh’s lone win in the campaign came against India at home last year.