Sanjar Ahamdi scored for Afghanistan in the 10th minute of the first half of the match. At the 86th minute Nepal was awarded a penalty, rekindling dying hopes of the Nepali fans. But Nepal failed to convert the spot kick. [break]
Nepal got another opportunity as the assistant referee ordered for a retake of the kick, as Afghan players had crossed the line before the earlier kick was taken. However, Rohit Chand could not capitalize on it, paving way to their opponents for a final berth.
The lone goal scored by Sanjar Ahmadi became the decisive goal for today’s semi finals.
Team Nepal exhibited offensive game at the beginning of the match, but they missed several chances to score.
Afghanistan now will play with the winner of the second semi final between India and Maldives, that is to be played on Monday. The final will be played on Wednesday.
Nepal had lost to Afghanistan with the identical score in the semi-finals of the 7th SAFF Championship in New Delhi two years ago.