DHAKA, March 28, (V7N) –  Bangladesh came from behind to force a 1-1 draw against India in their final Group B match of the SAFF U-20 Championship at the National Football Stadium in Malé, Maldives, on Saturday.  

With the result, both Bangladesh and India finished with four points from two matches. India topped the group on superior goal difference, while Bangladesh secured the runners-up spot.  

Bangladesh will now face Group A champions Nepal in the first semifinal on April 1 at the same venue. India will meet Group A runners-up Bhutan in the second semifinal later that day.  

India struck first in the 16th minute through Vishal Yadav, who headed home from a well-worked corner routine, leaving goalkeeper Mahin helpless.  

Bangladesh equalised deep into stoppage time of the first half. Substitute Abdul Riyad Fahim connected brilliantly with a cross from Ronan Sullivan, smashing a powerful volley into the net.  

Earlier, Bangladesh defeated Pakistan 2-0 courtesy of a brace from USA-based striker Sullivan, while India registered a commanding 3-0 win over Pakistan in their opening match.  

The final of the tournament is scheduled for April 3 at the same venue.  

Bangladesh U-20 squad: Ismail Hossain Mahin, Ishan Habib Riduan, Mithu Chowdhury, Ashikur Rahman, Kamal Merdha, Chondon Roy, Md Manik, Nazmul Huda, Murshed Ali, Ronan Sullivan, Sheikh Sangram.  

END/WSP/RH