Dhagandey(Ali Ashfaq) scored the only goal to give Maldives victory over Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan defence broke down five minutes into the game when Dhagandey headed in Haisham Hassan's(Bidi) perfect cross beyond Sujan Perera. Minutes later the Iron-man's perfect pass opened the Lions defence only for Ibrahim Mahudhee(Feydhoo Ibbe) to miss the chance. Hamza Mohamed(Hampu) rifled the ball towards goal which came off the cross bar. Sujan Perera was a busy goalkeeper busy goal keeper in the second half with Ali Suzain taking off Dhagandey and Hampu at the same time giving Sri Lanka confidence.

Ali Fasir(Sentey) hitting the goal post from a freekick late in the game as Sri Lanka pushed forward. Their sweeper Duckson Puslas playing a key role as a right wing. A resilient Sri Lanka almost disappointed Maldives in the closing stages as the long range chip came off the bar of reserve goalkeeper Mohamed Shafeeu(Chech) in for the injured Faisal.

Maldives is now in second place before Nepal's match against India later tonight.

Photo: FAM