Nepal and Maldives settled for a tie in the first game of the SAFF Under 18 Championship.

Nepal started the stronger side having a goal disallowed, however Maldives took the lead through Hassan Nazeem Gassim(Choatu) blasting his penalty kick to the top corner in the 14th minute. Maldives though very organized in defense were a little week in keeping possession against the defending champions and hosts Nepal.

Nepal's equalizer came in the 74th minute through Manish Dangi. Maldives goalkeeper Hassan Aleef had a brilliant end to the game keeping late Nepal pressure away from his goal.

Speaking to the press after the game Maldives coach Shazly Mohamed(Shaz) said that the team is motivated and that boys are ready for Bhutan. Shaz also commented on poor pitch conditions calling it a muddy surface and that it didn't suit either team. "to be honest we were very lucky. But luck comes with hard work" Shaz said speaking to the press after the game.

Shaz said that the team is well prepared and are confident of going through to the semi finals. This is the first time Maldives under 18 had taken a point against Nepal under 18 in a SAFF Championship.

Photo: Football Association of Maldives