Bangladesh once again conceded in added time to settle for a 2-2 draw against Nepal in a high-intensity friendly at Paltan’s National Stadium. Leading 2-1 after 90 minutes, the hosts seemed set to claim a morale-boosting victory. However, a defensive lapse during a corner in the third minute of stoppage time allowed Ananta Tamang to level the score, echoing the heartbreak of their 4-3 defeat to Hong Kong last month, when a late goal shattered their hopes.
Ahead of the crucial Asian Cup qualifier against India on 18 November, Bangladesh had invited Nepal for a preparatory fixture. Coach Javier Cabrera fielded a strong lineup, prioritising attacking play. Yet, in the opening half, Bangladesh appeared disorganised. It took almost 30 minutes for Jamal Bhuiya and Rakib Hossain to regain composure, by which time Nepal had taken the lead through a well-taken goal by Rohit Chand. Goalkeeper Mitul Marmar and the defenders were largely at fault for the opener.
Bangladesh turned the tide after the break, with Hamza Choudhury scoring two rapid goals. His first, a stunning bicycle kick, followed a cross from team captain Faisal Ahmed Fahim redirected by a Nepalese defender. He followed it up with a penalty strike, bringing his tally to four goals in six appearances.
Despite bringing on substitutes Shomit Som, Kiyuba Mitchell, Shaharian Emon, and Mohammad Hridoy, Cabrera’s side could not maintain focus in the closing minutes. The final goal conceded in stoppage time underlined lingering issues with defensive organisation and concentration. While Hamza’s individual brilliance was a highlight, the match revealed that Bangladesh must strengthen defensive discipline and maintain composure under pressure to succeed in competitive fixtures.