Maldives into semi-finals at international tournament

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Ricki Herbert’s Maldives U-23 international team have progressed to the semi-finals of the South Asian games, despite losing their last group match 3-2 to hosts India.

The Maldivians had beaten Sri Lanka 3-1 earlier in the group but India lost 1-0 to the Sri Lankans, ensuring Herbert’s team goes through to the knockout stage with the best record.

Indian striker Udhandha opened the scoring in  the 4th minute for the hosts but Muruthala equalised after 10 minutes with a superb shot into to the roof of the net.

India regained the lead two minutes later through Pritham.

Just before half-time, Maldives pulled level when Pritham put through his own net, trying to clear a cross from Nashid.

India scored what turned out to be the winner on the hour mark when Udhandha struck a smart volley into the net.