Bhutan have qualified for the semifinals of the Techno SAFF Championship for the first time in 18 years, finishing second in Group A after hosts Bangladesh defeated Sri Lanka four-nil in the final group match yesterday.
The Dragon Boys began their campaign against Bangladesh on 5 November. They held the hosts goalless for more than an hour before conceding the only goal of the match in the 69th minute.
Bhutan then faced Sri Lanka on 8 November, knowing that a positive result was crucial to keeping their semifinal hopes alive. The match ended in a two-all draw, earning Bhutan their first point of the tournament.
However, their qualification hopes depended on the final Group A match between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Bhutan needed the hosts to win by at least two goals to secure a place in the semifinals.
Bangladesh went on to win four-nil, leaving Bhutan and Sri Lanka level on one point each. Bhutan advanced on a better goal difference to claim the second semifinal spot in Group A.
Bhutan captain Chencho Gyeltshen said the team was excited to reach the semifinals after an 18-year absence.
“We are very excited because we are in the semi-finals again after 18 years. We have mixed emotions, you know. The atmosphere in the team is very good, and we are very excited about the semi-finals. We are mentally and physically prepared. The good thing is that we don’t have any injuries. Everyone is happy here. That matters a lot, and it is a plus point for our team,” he said.
With qualification secured, the team began its final preparations at the Bashundhara training ground in Bangladesh today.
Head Coach Gary Michael Phillips said the team was excited about the semifinal opportunity, while acknowledging some nervousness ahead of the match.
“Although we are very excited, there is also a little bit of nervousness. At the same time, we are thrilled to be part of the semi-final action. This is a team that has come together with a good group of players and a good mix of experience and youth. We have some younger players and some experienced players, so the blend is quite good. Everyone has maintained a very positive attitude throughout the week, and we are excited and looking forward to the next opportunity,” he said.
In Group B, India finished on top after winning against Pakistan and the Maldives. Pakistan secured the second semifinal spot after defeating the Maldives.
Bhutan will face India in Saturday’s semifinal, while Bangladesh will take on Pakistan.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Sonam Wangdi
