Hong Kong’s hopes of taking a significant step towards qualifying for the Asian Cup finals were dealt a major blow today after Bangladesh scored a late 1-1 equalizer at Kai Tak Stadium.
Matt Orr’s first-half penalty put the hosts ahead but the 76th minute sending off of Hong Kong defender Oliver Gerbig put Ashley Westwood’s side on the defensive and they were unable to hold on, with Rakib Hussein scoring an equalizer six minutes from time.
This stagnation means that Hong Kong remains at the top of Group Three But they could be overtaken by Singapore if they win in India later in the day.
The result was disappointing for Hong Kong, which saw enthusiastic crowds of more than 45,000 people.
The fans did their best to inject some life into a barren first half as the away side were happy to keep possession but were unable to make much progress in attack against a Hong Kong side who were tigerish in the press.
Kazi’s mistake gives Hong Kong the advantage
The breakthrough finally came in the 36th minute but not thanks to Hong Kong’s creativity.
Bangladeshi defender Tariq Kazi miscontrolled the ball inside his team’s penalty area, and in his attempt to compensate, he only succeeded in tripping Fernando. Orr stepped up and scored neatly into the right corner.
The home side seemed quite content to maintain their lead, with visiting goalkeeper Mitul Marma rarely tested.
The closest Hong Kong came to adding a second goal was when Fernando smashed a shot into the roof of the net after poor defensive work from Bangladesh.
Mohammad Islam was supposed to equalize but somehow managed to miss his kick in front of goal but Bangladesh got more encouragement when Gerbig was shown a second yellow card for an ill-timed challenge on Saaduddin.
Bangladesh pushed forward and were rewarded late on when Islam sent a cross across goal and Hossain was on hand to slot home.
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