Transport United FC lost to Colombo FC 2-1 in the second leg of the AFC Cup 2019 preliminary stage yesterday. With the defeat, the Bhutanese side is now out of the competition while Colombo FC advances to the next round of the qualifiers.
Following, 7-1 defeat in Sri Lanka last week, the 2018 national league champion, Transport United FC eyed for a miracle comeback.
To stay in the competition, the host team needed to score at least 6 goals and maintain a clean sheet.
In their desperate attempt, Transport United FC started the game strong with good ball possession and constant attacks.
Meanwhile, Colombo FC looked uncomfortable as they struggled to cope up with the harsh weather. At the same time, the visiting side was seen in a defensive mode from the very beginning of the game.
Transport United FC’s poor finishing and lack of coordination proved costly as they could only score one goal by the end of the first half.
Despite the freezing weather conditions, Colombo FC displayed a much more improved side in the second half.
Mohamed Fasal broke the Bhutanese hearts as he scored the crucial away goal at the 60th minute of the second half.
Devastated with the goal, the Bhutanese side began to fall apart. To make the matter worst Olayemi Victor was sent off for a reckless foul.
The ten men side were outclassed in every possible way as Colombo FC proved too much for them. The match ended in favour of the visiting side with two goals against their one.
“Actually we were ready for the game at our home but after the dismissal of our striker, the boys lost their concentration. They were not up to our expectations as well. We will now work harder and improve at the places where we lack,” Ngawang Dhendup, Transport United’s Coach, said.
Winning the two legged-affair 9-2 in goal aggregate, Colombo FC will now play the ISL champions Chennaiyin FC in the in the play-off stage of the competition.
