In an underwhelming start to their FIFA Friendly campaign, Bhutan’s senior national men’s football team succumbed to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Bangladesh at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu yesterday.
Despite dominating possession throughout the match, Bhutan struggled to convert their opportunities into goals. The game, characterized by a slow tempo from both sides, saw Bhutan fielding a relatively inexperienced squad, a decision that reflected the team’s recent change in coaching staff.
The decisive moment came early in the game, just five minutes in, when Bhutan’s goalkeeper made a critical error. Attempting to clear the ball under pressure, the goalkeeper’s punch instead landed in the path of a Bangladesh attacker, who capitalized on the mistake to score the lone goal of the match.
Throughout the first half, Bhutan maintained a commendable level of ball possession. However, their offensive efforts were stifled by Bangladesh’s resolute defense. The young Bhutanese team, featuring a new striker, Dilip Monger, failed to capitalize on their chances, with Monger unable to find the net before halftime.
The game was briefly interrupted during added time in the first half when a Bangladesh player collapsed on the pitch. A stretcher bearer who came to assist also fell, requiring medical attention and transportation to a national referral hospital. This delay added an unusual twist to an otherwise uneventful first half, which concluded with Bangladesh leading 1-0.
The second half saw Bhutan increase their pace and pressure, but they were still unable to breach Bangladesh’s disciplined defensive line. Despite their efforts and the high altitude of 2,400 meters, Bhutan’s attacking moves were thwarted, and several key passes went astray.
Bangladesh, playing away from home and without the support of their local fans, exhibited a composed and strategic performance that highlighted their maturity on the field. Bhutan was notably missing several crucial players, including Chencho Gyeltshen, Tsenda Dorji, and Lobzang Chogyal, who were instrumental in their victory over Hong Kong last October.
The teams will meet again for their next fixture on September 8 at Changlimithang Stadium, where Bhutan will look to regroup and deliver a stronger performance.
